> FROM THE HOUSE

A path leads down to the river, to the Banchet site, dominated by an ancient viaduct. The rocky banks of the Doux River are also punctuated with sandy beaches, and the river alternates between long stretches of deep water and small rapids. You may swim, fish or just sit there and contemplate.
You can also hike along the network of hiking routes (750 kms – 390 miles – between Tournon and St. Agrève!) and discover, up on the hills, the most beautiful sceneries. Or cycle, either on a road bike or a mountain bike, along the varied, winding roads. They are very famous for gathering each year more than 15,000 cyclists for the much talked-about “Ardéchoise”, a yearly race that takes place in June.

> SLIGHTLY FURTHER

The little steam train called « LE MASTROU » circulates, like it did in old times, between Lamastre and Tournon along the gorge of the Doux River.
Unfortunately the traffic is being interrupted... a reorganization of the movement is under consideration.
There are many places that are worth the visit: beautiful villages (Boucieu-le-Roi, Desaignes), some castles (des Bosc, Maisonseule), museums (the Canson Paper Museum, the Museum of Alambic, the Museum of Rural Life), but also caves, theme sites such as le Parc de Peaugres, a zoo and a vast Safari Park.

> SIMPLE PLEASURES

There are great restaurants in the nearby villages (Empurany, Le Crestet).
Several farmer’s markets typical of Ardèche, like the one in Lamastre every Tuesday.
Gourmet venues: chestnut groves, a flour mill, breweries, wineries, and a chocolate factory.

> USEFUL WEBSITES

www.valleedudoux.com
www.tourisme-saintfelicien.fr
www.ardeche-verte.com
www.lamastre.fr
www.safari-peaugres.com