Auvergne

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The hills of the Auvergne form part of the huge region known as the Massif Central. Volcanic activity has left the Auvergne with a landscape of lush green woodland and clear blue lakes interspersed with rocky peaks and craters. This beautiful region is famous for its spas including the one at Vichy. A wonderful area for outdoor activities such as canoeing and walking, there are also countless hilltop castles, churches and fascinating extinct volcanos and deep canyons to explore.

Cévennes + Ardèche

The rich landscape of inland France is ideal for a variety of family activities including cycling, canoeing and even white water rafting. The River Ardèche, with its dramatic ravines, winds its way through an area of great contrasts, with pasture and woodland in the north, orchards and vineyard to the east and dramatic scenery created by volcanic activity in the south. The Cévennes mountains in the south-west are more remote, and are a mecca for wildlife.

Roquefort

Visit the caves where the famous blue marbled cheese is produced and stored on oak tables.

Conques

With ancient winding streets and old houses clinging to the hillside above the deep gorges of the River Dourdou.

Gorges du Tarn

Almost 50 miles long, the Tarn River twists through its canyon, revealing half-hidden ancient castles.

Estaing

A quiet, charming medieval town, with a 16th century château and beautiful arched Gothic bridge.

St Flour

A bustling market town with a spectacular setting above the River Ander, a gothic cathedral and narrow streets in the old quarter to explore.

Uzès

A restored medieval town, famous for its herb market, narrow streets, squares and Romanesque bell tower.

Pont du Gard

A breathtaking feat of Roman architecture, originally built to supply the Roman city of Nîmes with water, this magnificent aqueduct spans the River Gardon in beautiful surroundings.

Nîmes

Called the “Rome of France”, as Roman colonisation left behind many fine buildings. See the best-preserved Arena in France, once used for chariot races and gladiator combats.

Anduze

Take the little tourist steam train into the hills to St Jean de Gard.

Avignon

A beautiful town famous for its 12th century bridge and Papal palace, with cobbled streets in the picturesque old quarter.

Orange

With a richly decorated Roman triumphal arch and splendidly preserved Roman theatre still used for shows today.

St Amans-des-Cots:

Les Tours >

St Alban:

Le Ranc Davaine >

Largentière:

Les Ranchisses >