Is the Chauvet 2 Cave close to Les Truffières campsite?

YES. The Chauvet 2 Cave is located just 20 km from the campsite, about a 25-minute drive.

Do you need to be athletic to cycle on the Via Rhôna?

NO. The Via Rhôna is a flat greenway (0% elevation) and perfectly safe, ideal for families and beginner cyclists.

Can we book canoeing directly at the campsite?

YES. The reception of Les Truffières campsite manages bookings for 8 km or 24 km descents with a free shuttle service.

What are the most beautiful villages within 10 km?

In the immediate vicinity, you will find Saint-Montan (4 km) and Aiguèze (8 km), classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Are there wine tastings nearby?

YES. Saint-Marcel-d'Ardèche is at the crossroads of the Côtes du Rhône AOCs. Several wine estates offer tastings less than 5 km from the campsite.

Does the campsite offer hiking trails?

YES. An exclusive QR code at the reception gives access to 40 GPX tracks from 2 to 80 km departing directly from the campsite.

Tourism and Activities in South Ardèche: What to do during your holidays?

Q: Is summer the only good season to visit South Ardèche?

NO. Spring (May-June) and the late season (September) are ideal for hiking, cycling on the Via Rhôna, and visiting villages with fewer crowds.

Q: Can we find indoor activities around Saint-Marcel-d'Ardèche when it rains?

YES. You can visit the Saint-Marcel Cave (6 km), the Aven d'Orgnac (15 km), the Chauvet 2 Cave (20 km), or the Crocodile Farm in Pierrelatte (14 km) which is covered and heated.

Q: Is it easy to find activities suitable for toddlers?

YES. The Via Rhôna is safe for bike trailers, the Crocodile Farm is 100% stroller accessible, and the tree climbing parks offer courses from 3 years old.

Discover the must-see sites, family activities, and leisure pursuits around our campsite.

"The soul of Ardèche has an address"

Les Truffières

+33 (0)4 75 04 68 35

252 Impasse Les Truffières, 07700 Saint-Marcel d'Ardèche

Location map

In short: Your family holidays in South Ardèche

Your base camp

Saint-Marcel-d'Ardèche (Campsite Les Truffières), ideally located at the crossroads of the Ardèche, Gard, Drôme, and Vaucluse departments.

Nature Must-Sees

Canoeing down the Gorges (from 7 years old), guaranteed coolness in the Caves (St-Marcel, Chauvet 2), and tailor-made hikes.

Active Leisure

Ultra-safe bike rides on the Via Rhôna (0% incline), treetop adventure parks (from 3 years old), and river fishing.

Culture & Local Heritage

Explore Villages of Character (Saint-Montan, Aiguèze), visit medieval castles, and enjoy tastings at Provençal markets.

The weather Plan B

Whether it's 35°C or raining, we have solutions (Aven d'Orgnac at 15°C, indoor Crocodile Farm at 30°C).

⏱️ Journey & GPS Simulator for your outings

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Must-see natural sites in South Ardèche

Gorges Descent: Canoeing and Kayaking on the Ardèche

This is the premier activity in the region. Navigating the whitewater of the Ardèche Gorges offers a spectacular panorama, notably the passage under the famous Pont d'Arc. Whether you're looking for an introduction for children or a sporty day trip, there is a route suited to your level.

Ideal for: Cooling off, enjoying sports as a family, admiring the nature reserve.
Top tip: The descent is accessible from 7 years old (knowing how to swim is mandatory). Our favourite spot for a picnic break is just after the Charlemagne rapid, on a very quiet small white sand beach. Book at reception to take advantage of our free shuttle.

Practical information for the Ardèche Gorges descent
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
From €25 to €35 / person	April to September	2h30 (8 km) to 6h (24 km)

Book your canoe descent

Caves & Chasms: Journey to the Centre of the Earth

The Ardèche is home to some of the most beautiful caves in Europe. Perfect for escaping the summer heat or filling a rainy day, these visits plunge you into a fascinating geological universe. From the campsite, access is quick:

Saint-Marcel-d'Ardèche Cave (6 km away)
Aven d'Orgnac, Grand Site de France (15 km away)
Chauvet 2 Cave, replica of the famous prehistoric cave (20 km away)
Top tip: Guaranteed constant temperature! Whether it's 35°C or raining, it's always around 14°C to 15°C underground. Bring a light cardigan/jacket. We particularly love the sound and light show in the Saint-Marcel Cave, which beautifully enhances the calcite pools in a unique way.

Practical information for visiting Caves and Chasms
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
€10 to €18 / person depending on the site	February to late November (Chauvet open all year round)	1h15 to half a day

Explore the caves

Hiking: trails in the heart of nature

Put on your walking boots! The campsite's privileged location offers you immediate proximity to the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve, an ideal playground for your walks in the heart of Ardèche's nature.

Ideal for: Reconnecting with nature and observing local wildlife.
Top tip: Take advantage of our exclusive QR code at reception, giving you access to 40 GPX tracks created by us. Our absolute favourite is loop n°4, which offers a breathtaking panorama over the gorges at sunset.

Practical information for Hiking
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
100% Free	All year round (ideal in spring/autumn)	1 hour to a full day

View hiking routes

Leisure, parks, and family activities in South Ardèche

Activities and leisure parks for the whole family

Beyond the great outdoors, the Ardèche is bursting with landscaped parks to the delight of children: treetop adventure courses shaded by pine trees, donkey rides, or leisure centres with supervised swimming. Everything is designed to create wonderful family memories.

Top tip: Most local treetop adventure parks offer secure "monkey lines", accessible from 3 or 4 years old. For a refreshing break after the effort, we recommend trying the artisan ice creams sold right at the entrance of the St-Julien park!

Practical information for Leisure Activities
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
€0 to €25 / person	April to the autumn half-term (Toussaint) holidays	2h to 3h (half day)

Discover leisure parks

Via Rhôna: An Unforgettable Cycle Ride Along the Rhône

The Via Rhôna, a famous cycle path running alongside the Rhône, is perfect for a safe family excursion. From South Ardèche, cycle through preserved landscapes and historic towns like Viviers or La Voulte-sur-Rhône. Mountain bike enthusiasts will also find more technical trails in the surrounding hills.

Top tip: With 0% incline on the specially designed sections, the Via Rhôna is ultra-safe. At a pace of 10 to 12 km/h, expect a 3-hour round trip to Viviers. For a gourmet break, stop at the guinguette (riverside café) at the Viviers port; their crêpes are delicious.

Practical information for the Via Rhôna
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
Free access (Bike rental ~€20/day)	All year round	~2h (leisurely family pace)

Rent a bike and follow the Via Rhôna

Fishing in Ardèche: A Paradise for Anglers

The many rivers (the Ardèche, the Baume, the Chassezac) and the lakes of the region are idyllic spots for anglers. Whether you are a fly fishing enthusiast or wish to introduce your children to it, enjoy a moment of absolute tranquillity in unspoilt settings.

Top tip: The Ardèche is full of 1st and 2nd category rivers. A daily fishing permit is mandatory. Ask Stéphane at reception; he will be delighted to point you to his secret spot near the old bridge of Saint-Martin, ideal for trout in the early morning!

Practical information on Fishing in Ardèche
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
Mandatory daily permit: €13 to €15	March to September (depending on category)	2h to a full day

Find a fishing spot

Cultural sites and gastronomy of the Ardèche heritage

Villages of Character: A dive into history

Our exceptional location allows you to explore the architectural gems of the region, from cobbled Ardèche alleyways to the historic towns of the Gard, Drôme, and Vaucluse. Here are the must-sees nearby:

Under 20 km: Saint-Montan (4 km), Aiguèze (8 km), Montclus (17 km).
From 20 to 45 km: Bollène (24 km), Vallon-Pont-d'Arc (25 km), Ruoms (34 km), Orange (34 km), Vogüé (44 km).
Over 50 km: Antraigues-sur-Volane (54 km), Aubenas (64 km), Joyeuse (64 km).
Top tip: Allow 1h to 3h30 to stroll around each village. Our advice: go in the late afternoon when the golden stone of Saint-Montan lights up under the low sun, it's magical! Opt for a baby carrier on the cobbles.

Practical information for Villages of Character
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
100% Free	All year round	1h to 3h30 stroll per village

Visit the listed villages

Castles in Ardèche: A medieval escapade

Impregnable fortresses or elegant Renaissance manors, Ardèche castles often dominate breathtaking landscapes. Their guided tours, frequently animated in summer, will delight history buffs and budding knights alike.

Top tip: Guided tours generally last 45 minutes to 1 hour. The Château de Grignan offers theatrical tours in the summer that our children loved. Furthermore, it is very often free for children under 7.

Practical information for discovering Castles
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
€5 to €10 (Often free for under-7s)	April to autumn half-term	45 min to 1h (guided tour)

Explore the castles

Provençal Markets: Flavours of the South

At the gateway to the Ardèche, Gard, Drôme, and Vaucluse, enjoy a terroir of incomparable richness. Stroll through the local markets to taste caillette, picodon cheese, or chestnut cream.

Top tip: To avoid the summer heat, arrive at the market before 9:00 am. Don't hesitate to drop by the goat cheese stall from the neighbouring farms; their aged picodon is an absolute delight with crusty country bread.

Practical information for Provençal markets
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
Free access	All year round (Arrive before 9am)	1h to 2h (market)

Find a local market

Ardèche Wines: Wine Tasting in Saint-Marcel

Don't miss discovering the surrounding vineyards: many nearby cellars open their doors for convivial tastings of Ardèche wines, Vins de France, and Côtes du Rhône.

Top tip: Local cellars offer AOC Côtes du Rhône and IGP Ardèche tastings. Our favourite is Domaine de la Croix Blanche, 5 mins away, where the winemaker always takes the time to passionately explain his craft.

Practical information for discovering Ardèche wine
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
Free access	All year round	30 to 45 min (wine cellar)

Book a tasting

The Crocodile Farm (Pierrelatte)

Located just 14 km away, in the neighbouring Drôme, this is a family outing par excellence. Enter a giant tropical greenhouse and be fascinated by hundreds of crocodiles, giant tortoises, and other reptiles. An unmissable educational visit.

Top tip: Allow half a day. The bioclimatic greenhouse is 30°C all year round (ideal in case of rain!). Make sure to be there for the feeding at 11 am; it's the most impressive moment for the children.

Practical information on the crocodile farm
💶 Estimated budget	📅 Opening period	⏱️ Duration of the activity
~€18 to €20	All year round (Greenhouse heated to 30°C)	Half day

Buy a ticket for the Farm

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Planning your stay in Ardèche

Is summer the only good season to visit South Ardèche?

NO. Spring (May-June) and autumn (September to November) are even ideal for hiking, cycling on the Via Rhôna, and visiting listed villages with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer remains the prime season for swimming and canoeing.

Can you find indoor activities around Saint-Marcel-d'Ardèche when it rains?

YES. The underground Ardèche is your best ally. You can stay dry visiting the Saint-Marcel Cave (6 km away), the Aven d'Orgnac (15 km), or the Chauvet 2 Cave (20 km). The Crocodile Farm in Pierrelatte (14 km) is also a fully covered tropical greenhouse.

Is it easy to find activities suitable for toddlers near the campsite?

YES. You can opt for safe bike trailer rides on the Via Rhôna, a visit to the Crocodile Farm (very accessible for families), and strolls through nearby villages of character like Saint-Montan (4 km) with ice cream breaks.

Is the famous Chauvet 2 Cave far from Les Truffières campsite?

NO. The Chauvet 2 Cave is located just 20 km from the campsite. The journey is quick by car, making it an unmissable half-day excursion to discover this exceptional prehistoric replica.

Do you need to be very sporty to cycle on the Via Rhôna as a family?

NO. The Via Rhôna is a specially designed greenway, flat and fully secured, ideal for families. Moreover, many rental shops near the campsite offer electric assist bikes or children's trailers.

Is it possible to book your canoe descent directly from the campsite?

YES. You can book your boat for the Ardèche Gorges descent directly at the Les Truffières campsite reception. We will provide route advice and you will have access to a free bus to make logistics easier.

Can we visit beautiful villages of character within 10 km of the campsite?

YES. The campsite's geographical location is ideal: you are only 4 km from the medieval village of Saint-Montan and 8 km from Aiguèze, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Is the Crocodile Farm accessible with a pushchair?

YES. The Crocodile Farm site, located 14 km away in Pierrelatte, features a level, step-free pathway, making it perfectly accessible for pushchairs and people with reduced mobility.

Are there any wine estates open for tasting near Saint-Marcel-d'Ardèche?

YES. The campsite is located at a strategic crossroads (Ardèche, Gard, Drôme, Vaucluse). You will find many cellars in the immediate vicinity to taste (in moderation) Ardèche Wines, Vins de Pays, and Côtes du Rhône appellations.

Does the campsite offer ready-to-use hiking routes?

Yes. At reception, we provide an exclusive QR code giving you access to 40 GPX tracks created by us. These loops range from 2 to 80 km and start directly from the campsite to facilitate your explorations.

Practical Information

Reception opening hours

Every day from 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 8pm.

Information and booking:

Tel: +33 (0)4 75 04 68 35

Directions

Campsite "Les Truffières"
252 Impasse Les Truffières
07700 Saint Marcel d'Ardèche, France.

GPS Coordinates:
Lat: 44.344183°N - Long: 4.604771°E

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