Ardeche

[alipaton_5093452]

Has anybody camped in the Ardeche? Any recommendations ,advice greatly apreciated.

cheers Ali

 

[taffia]

Hi Ali try looking at this site

www.campings-ardeche.com

 

[OldBean]

The Ardeche is a fantastic area for camping - with LOADS of sites - it's very busy though, in high season, so book in advance if you're planning late July/early August. After that time you should be OK. Site recommendations are difficult - because everyone likes different things. There are lots of sites along the river itself, most with access for canoes and swimming. Camping L'Ardechois at Vallon Pont D'Arc is typical of the top of the range sites, with a fantastic state of the art washblock. Camping Domaine at Sampzon is also alongside the river, and is very neat and grassy, with direct access. The Alan Rogers guide gives ideas of sites, with costs, and independent reviews. The green Michelin guide has a section for the Ardeche, and lists all types of sites, including the municipal just over the river from Vallon.

Do see the Pont D'Arc - the beaches nearby are good for a day 'canoe watching', if you're fit then do the descent of the Ardeche by canoe, there are some super morning markets, the one at L'Argentiere is typical - with great stalls.

We've been many times to this area, and keep returning. It's our favourite area in France, so if you want more specific information I'd be happy to help.

 

[OldBean]

Just another thought, Camping Ranc Davaine, although not along the Ardeche itself, is a large site, with the most fantastic pool complex. Slides, fountains, rushing streams, whirlpools, etc. It also has a great restaurant and pizzeria. There's a smaller river adjoining the site, where you can mess about in canoes. It's great for kids, with lots of activities. It can get VERY HOT in high season, but they have a 'mist' system, which sprays cooled water mist across the outside bar/restaurant area - sounds dreadful, but fantastic when it's very hot.

There are several sites in this area which accept Camping Cheques or ACSI card, which make it great value outside of the mid-July/early August season. Ranc Davaine is one of them, as is Les Ranchisses at L'Argentiere. I think Sampzon accepts ACSI or Touring Cheques - can't remember which. We've stayed in the Ardeche from about 18th August, and used Camping Cheques - but haven't checked out the site acceptance dates this year.

 

[alipaton_5093452]

Thanks so much for great info on ardeche.I really want to visit now!

Cheers Ali