🌄 Mélis tested it for you: the rail bike in the Gorges du Doux
Fancy an original activity surrounded by nature? Today, I'm taking you with me to discover the Gorges du Doux rail bike, an unusual outing that's perfect for summer!
🚗 BEFORE DEPARTURE: A PROMISING MORNING
This morning, we're heading to the Gorges du Doux.
It's July, the sun is shining: perfect for an outdoor adventure!
We arrive about 30 minutes before departure time. The tour guides are really friendly and clearly explain how the rail bike works. The atmosphere is relaxed but well organized ✨
🚂 RIDE ON THE RAILWAY
There is no need to pedal for the ascent; we take our seats in a Billard railcar dating from 1937. The journey is 8 km long to reach the starting point at the top of the route and finally begin the rail bike activity.
🚲 IN PLACE IN BICYCLE RAILWAY NO. 17
Once settled into rail bike no. 17, we set off on the Chestnut Tree Trail:
⏱️ Duration: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
📏 Distance: 8 km
My parents pedaled the whole way (thank you, Mom and Dad 😄), which meant my little sister and I could enjoy the scenery to the full without getting tired.
🌳 MAGNIFICENT LANDSCAPES ALONG THE WAY
The route is truly superb:
- green mountains,
- small waterfalls,
- rivers that gently accompany the walk.
It's calm, soothing, and exotic... exactly what you're looking for when you go on a family getaway to recharge your batteries.
🚦 A SMALL CORK... BUT FOR A GOOD CAUSE
At one point, we encountered a slight “traffic jam” on the tracks—yes, that happens even on rail bikes! 😄
It didn't last long: a few minutes later, we enjoyed a magnificent view that was well worth the wait.
❤️ OUR VERDICT: A REAL FAVORITE
We all loved this experience!
It's a fun, accessible activity that's perfect for:
- families,
- beginners,
- or anyone who wants to enjoy nature without too much physical effort.
I highly recommend the Châtaigniers trail if you're looking for a friendly outing that takes you away from it all 🌿
For a more challenging ride, you can choose between the “Les Étroits” route (12 km - 2 hours) or the longer route combining the two routes, “La Grande Aventure” (20 km - 4 hours), starting from Boucieu-le-Roi.
Starting from Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, you can combine the Ardèche Train and the Vélorail with the “Train + Vélorail” day trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking is not mandatory but recommended. This activity is very popular and places are limited.
You can reserve your places at the Pays de Lamastre Tourist Office, on the Vélorail online ticket office, at the Train de l'Ardèche and Vélorail station ticket offices, and at the Ardèche Hermitage Tourist Office.
How early should I arrive?
You must arrive approximately 30 minutes before departure. This time is necessary to explain the safety rules and how to get into the rail bikes.
What is the minimum height for cycling?
The minimum height for pedaling is 1.40 meters. People shorter than this must sit at the rear of the rail bike.
How many people can ride on a rail bike?
Each rail bike has 2 seats at the front and 3 seats at the rear.