Holidays in Ardèche: what to do around Camping Les Paillotes in Ruoms?
Must-see attractions in southern Ardèche
Looking for a holiday surrounded by nature, rivers, and charming villages ? Located in the heart of the southern Ardèche, in Ruoms, Camping Les Paillotes is the ideal starting point for exploring one of the most beautiful regions of France. Between spectacular natural landscapes, characterful villages, fascinating caves, and outdoor activities like canoeing , the possibilities for excursions are endless. Every day of your holiday becomes a new adventure.
Whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or looking for activities with family or friends, here are some ideas for must-do activities to experience during your stay.
The must-do activity: canoeing down the Ardèche river
It’s impossible to visit the Ardèche without experiencing the legendary canoe trip down the river . It’s the region’s iconic activity.
From Ruoms, you can embark on a boat trip and discover the exceptional landscapes of the Ardèche Gorges : listed villages, limestone cliffs, natural sandy beaches, crystal clear water and preserved nature.
This is the perfect activity for families, couples or groups of friends who want to enjoy a friendly and refreshing moment during the hot summer days.
Courses for all levels
6 km route – Pradons → Ruoms
Ideal for a first canoeing experience. This easy route is perfect for families with children or beginners.
Average duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
A relaxing moment on the river, between swimming and magnificent scenery.
14 km route – Balazuc → Ruoms
A more complete route with passages through the heart of iconic and spectacular landscapes, swimming areas on wild beaches and some accessible rapids.
Average duration: 3h30 to 4h30 , perfect for a day in nature.
Canoeing in the Ardèche is a way to discover the river in a different way and to live a unique experience in the heart of an exceptional natural setting .
Natural sites to discover in Ardèche
The Circus of People
The Cirque de Gens, near Ruoms, is a spectacular natural site sculpted by millions of years of erosion from the Ardèche River. This impressive meander, surrounded by cliffs, offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region. From the river, by canoe, the view is simply incredible. Between hiking to admire the scenery, swimming, and relaxing on the natural beaches, it’s a perfect place to fully enjoy the Ardèche countryside. From the river, the view of the cirque is absolutely magical.
The Ardèche Gorges
The Ardèche Gorges are among the most impressive landscapes in the south of France. The famous scenic route allows visitors to discover this spectacular canyon thanks to several viewpoints offering panoramic views from over 200 meters above the river.
Whether by car or bicycle, this route allows you to discover one of the most spectacular landscapes in Ardèche.
The Gorges are also a protected nature reserve , where you can enjoy crystal-clear water in a wild and unspoiled environment.
Explore the natural treasures of the Ardèche
The Païolive Wood
The Bois de Païolive is a mysterious and fascinating place where nature has sculpted rock formations into astonishing shapes. The paths wind between the rocks, creating a veritable natural labyrinth perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Erosion has sculpted limestone blocks that evoke animals such as the Elephant, the Lion or the Bear.
Walking around this site is a true immersion in a fascinating landscape where the imagination takes over.
The Aven d’Orgnac
The Aven d’Orgnac is one of the most beautiful caves in Europe. The visit begins with a spectacular descent of 700 steps which leads to more than 120 meters underground .
Inside, visitors discover immense rooms adorned with monumental stalactites and stalagmites , highlighted by subtle lighting.
It’s a fascinating experience for young and old alike, immersing visitors in a spectacular underground world.
The Chauvet Cave 2
Discovered in 1994, the Chauvet Cave houses the oldest known prehistoric paintings, dating back more than 36,000 years .
The Chauvet 2 Cave , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a faithful reproduction allowing visitors to admire these exceptional works in an immersive space located in the heart of a 29-hectare park.
Visitors can discover frescoes depicting lions, horses or rhinoceroses, created by the first artists of humanity.
The Chassezac gorges
The Chassezac Gorges offer a spectacular natural environment with their high limestone cliffs. It is a prime location for hiking, swimming, or wildlife observation.
Beavers, bats and peregrine falcons can be observed there in their natural habitat.
Ray-Pic waterfall
Located in the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Natural Park , the Ray-Pic waterfall is an impressive waterfall surrounded by volcanic rocks.
A marked trail allows you to reach several viewpoints to admire this spectacular site and understand its geological origin.
Swimming is prohibited there, but the walk is well worth the detour.
The Pont d’Arc
It is impossible to visit the Ardèche without admiring the famous Pont d’Arc , a monumental natural arch carved by the river.
Located near Vallon Pont d’Arc, this iconic site is one of the most photographed in the region and constitutes the natural entrance to the Ardèche Gorges.
Visit the most beautiful villages around the campsite.
The southern Ardèche is full of charming villages that offer an immersion in local history and heritage, perched above rivers and valleys.
Ruoms
Ruoms is a fortified medieval village surrounded by ramparts dating from the 14th century. Its lively streets, summer market, and historical heritage make it an unmissable destination.
Balazuc
Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France , Balazuc is a true medieval gem clinging to the cliff.
Its cobbled streets, medieval castle, and panoramic views over the Ardèche valley make it a must-see. One of the most charming villages in the region.
Vogue
With its castle overlooking the river and its stone houses clustered around narrow streets, Vogüé is one of the most picturesque villages in the region. Its streets lined with medieval arcades and a beach on the banks of the Ardèche also offer opportunities to enjoy a relaxing moment overlooking the village.
Labeaume
Nestled between limestone cliffs, wild gorges, and a river, Labeaume is a charming village renowned for its hanging gardens , dolmens, and remarkable natural landscapes. Let yourself be captivated by its authentic atmosphere and charming narrow streets.
Antraigues-sur-Volane
Perched at an altitude of 470 meters, Antraigues-sur-Volane is a Cévennes village famous for having been the residence of the singer Jean Ferrat.
Its narrow streets, panoramic views and artistic atmosphere make it a unique place.
Banne and Naves
The villages of Banne and Naves also offer a remarkable heritage with their Romanesque churches, medieval remains and preserved landscapes.
Hiking and cycling in the Ardèche
Southern Ardèche is a true paradise for hiking and cycling enthusiasts .
Numerous trails allow you to discover the limestone cliffs, the Mediterranean forests, and the panoramic views of the gorges.
Greenways and cycle routes are also being developed to allow people to enjoy the region safely, especially with their families.
Discover the local markets
- Provençal markets are an excellent opportunity to discover local specialties: Goat cheeses – Honey – Cured meats – Ardèche wines – Local produce.
The market in Ruoms is particularly popular:
- Friday morning : traditional market
- Wednesday evenings in summer : very lively night market
The perfect opportunity to stroll through the village and enjoy the summer atmosphere.
✅ In summary:
Experience the Ardèche at Camping Les Paillotes.
Staying at Camping Les Paillotes in Ruoms means being at the heart of a region rich in nature, heritage and outdoor activities . Between canoeing on the Ardèche, medieval villages and spectacular natural sites, each day offers a new discovery.
Between canoeing on the Ardèche, medieval villages, spectacular caves and magnificent natural landscapes , your vacation will be punctuated by discovery and adventure.
Whether you are with family, as a couple or with friends, everything is in place for an unforgettable stay in the heart of nature .
So don’t wait any longer: plan your stay and come discover the Ardèche in a different way, along the water .
Don’t miss the opportunity to combine camping and activities in the Ardèche for a complete holiday. Book your accommodation and canoe trip now to fully enjoy the river and spectacular scenery.
