Family Cycling in Ardèche

A vacation at last! Your family cycling holiday through the beautiful Ardeche begins in Tournon-sur-Rhône. The small, lively town is located in the sunny Rhone Valley, just a short distance north of Valence.  A perfect opportunity to soak up the peace and quiet of your vacation. The landscape around Tournon is characterized by vinyard and gentle rolling hills. While parents may already be dreaming of their first glass of regional wine, there is plenty to discover. Wander through small alleyways, along the riverbank and enjoy the southern flair of the town. Enjoy your time tomorrow it the first cycling day of your family cycle tour in the Ardeche along the Rhone river.

Your family cycle tour through the Ardeche starts today on the Dolce Via, a former railroad. A real highlight awaits right at the start a ride on the historic "Mastrou" steam train. The train chugs through the Vivarais countryside at a leisurely pace - an experience for young and old alike. If the train ride isn't on schedule today a transfer will take you to your starting point in Lamastre. Now it's time to saddle up and enjoy! Cycling gently downhill through green valleys on the former railroad line you will cross small bridges and pass through tunnels - without any car traffic. The Dolce Via lives up to its name and takes you to Le Cheylard in a relaxed manner - a perfect conclusion to  today's stage of your family cycle tour in the Ardeche region at the river Rhone.

Today you cycle leisurely downstream along the Eyrieux  river- a particularly relaxing section of your family cycle tour in the Ardeche. Along the way, you will discover old mills, terraced slopes and lush orchards. This most pristine part of the Dolce Via offers plenty of tranquillity and nature. This stage is a truely memorable experience for the whole family. Follow the meandering stream towards the Rhone.

Today is already the fourth day of your family cycle tour. Enjoy the relaxation and family time in stunning region of the Ardeche. Take your time to explore: there are canoe tours, take a swimming break or try a climbing adventure.  The region is is popular and well-known for its variety-  ideal for an active family to explore. In the following days you will leave the Ardeche behind to continue your cycling vacation towards the Rhone valley.

The rolling hills slowly give way to the Rhône valley. Today you leave the Dolce Via to follow the ViaRhôna long-distance cycle route. The path stretches from the Alps to the Mediterranean. An ideal moment for a short break in the cool waters of the river! Children will love a break to cool off and play! So the adults can relax in the shade of one of the old Roman bridges - a perfect mix of nature, history and fun for the whole family.

To round off your journey, continue along the ViaRhôna. The route is within sight of the wide Rhône river and meandering along extensive orchards. Take the time to explore the lively city of Valence. The historic center of this former Roman city is a sight to see. Take a walk through the historic town before you reach Tournon-sur-Rhône. Now you've reached the final stop of your family cycling vacation.

Today it's time to say goodbye to your cycle tour together along the Dolce Via and the ViaRhôna. Over breakfast together, there will be time to look back on the best moments: the first few kilometers on the bike, little adventures along the way and shared mementos with your family. Take the memories and your luggage to start your journey home. Perhaps you've already got your next vacation on your mind.