French Regional Information - Get active in the Ardèche

Often referred to as Corsica without a coastline, the Ardèche has a host of appealing outdoor activities for the sports enthusiast. The gorges and gushing rivers make a perfect playground for whitewater rafting, canyoning, canoeing, sailing, wind surfing and rock climbing. Those who prefer their feet firmly on the ground can enjoy hiking through the chestnut forests onto the mountain plateaux, pony trekking on country trails past medieval hamlets, biking, fishing, and potholing – there is something for everyone in the Ardèche.

The selection of properties for sale in the area is just as diverse. The famous Ardèche gorges offer a canoe trip through the most spectacular scenery. From Vallon Pont d’Arc, meander through the calm waters and ride the rapids down to St Martin d’Ardèche. Near Vallon Pont d’Arc are prehistoric caves where an underground adventure awaits those who like caving and potholing. Travelling north up the Ardèche river between St Privat and the medieval town of Vogue, experience an adrenalin rush crashing through the turbulent current and counter currents on a white water raft.

Not far from these famous gorges, a fabulous four-bedroom villa-style property is for sale at €400,000. The property includes a self-contained apartment and a large swimming pool surrounded by stone terracing. It has gardens of 2,339m2 with wooded areas, a sauna and a double garage with tiled roof. The property is suitable for a family wanting to relocate to France.

Stone villa

In the north of the Ardèche sits Lake ssarles near Courcouron, with its sandy eaches and many watersports such as inghy sailing or windsurfing. Fishing in hese lakes and rivers is another a popular port. From mid-March to the end of September salmon and trout can be caught, along with grayling, carp, pike and perch. There are many tranquil fishing spots along the rivers, beside the lakes and pools for the experienced and inexperienced angler.

A stone-built villa-style house near the rivers and lakes is on the market for €265,000. It has three large bedrooms with bathroom and study upstairs. Spectacular views of the surrounding countryside can be enjoyed from the two large bay windows. The house would make a perfect holiday home. Surrounded by 2,888m² of grounds, it is private but not far from the local town with its bars, restaurants and shops.

Traditional farmhouse

There is always a mountain trail nearby in the Ardèche which can be enjoyed on foot, horseback or mountain bike. Five hundred miles of footpaths and trails criss-cross the valleys and mountains. Follow the Grande Randonnée paths twisting through the hills past silent hamlets, forests, vineyards and rivers. Experience the breathtaking cliff-top panoramas of the Plateau de Coiron.

On this plateau a fabulous ancient stone farmhouse is for sale of 120m². It has been totally renovated in the traditional style, retaining lots of original features with its Ardèche stone walls and original beams made from local chestnut and oak. The house is surrounded by 2,500m² of grounds which are a mixture of woodland and meadow. It has two large bedrooms and vaulted wine cellars. This house is on the market for €247,000.

Stunning estate

For those who want to see the Ardèche from a different perspective, cliffhanging in the Tarangue mountains near the Croix de Bauzon mountains may be an enticing option. The less experienced climber can try an easier climb on one of the numerous rock faces that rise out of the gorges. Near one of these, and at the more expensive end of the property market, is an estate for sale for €2,600,000.

Situated in the heart of the Ardèche Méridionale with its stunning countryside and panoramic views, the three houses that make up the estate are surrounded by five hectares of olive groves, natural woodlands and meadows. The buildings, of local stone from Ruoms dating to the 17th century, have been entirely renovated retaining many original features. There are stone staircases, original open fires, large bedrooms and independent bedroom suites. To complement these charming houses there is a swimming pool, tennis court and parkland. It would make a sound commercial investment for those wanting to set up a business in this remarkable part of France. All these activities can be enjoyed easily in the Ardèche. In this compact region nothing is ever far away.

Sally Ridd works for Compagnie de l’Immobilier
Tel: 01492 534588 (UK office)
Tel: 0033 (0)4 75 35 77 77 (French Office)
www.compagnie-immobilier.com

---