Tour - “Last stop! Everyone off!”

About

Stop by the historic Lamastre train station—the Terre d'Ardèche visitor center will inspire you to explore the surrounding area!

DAY 1 – Tuesday – Lamastre: Yesterday and Today

Between the Doux Gorges and the gateway to the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park, Lamastre is a pleasant small town renowned for its weekly market, which has existed for 400 years. It is a true journey through time as you wander among the different stalls, discovering their history, colours, aromas and atmosphere.

After exploring the market, head to Parc Seignobos, or to one of our partner restaurants, to taste some local Ardèche specialities such as crique (Ardèche-style potato pancake), caillette or Tomme cheese salad.

To discover Lamastre as it was in the past and as it is today, head to the arboretum, about a 25-minute walk away, and explore its flourishing biodiversity along an interpretation trail.

(Summer only) At 5:30 pm, Les Bergers des Chaupous welcomes you for a 1½-hour visit of their sheepfold. Take the opportunity to taste and purchase local farm products: shepherd’s Tomme, Pastrou, yoghurt, ice cream and more.

Dinner at one of our partner restaurants in the Pays de Lamastre.

Overnight at one of our partner accommodations in the Pays de Lamastre.

DAY 2 – From the Train to the Chestnut Grove

From Lamastre, discover the Doux Valley as far as Boucieu-le-Roi. The Green Ardèche unfolds before you during this 14-kilometre railway journey, alternating between a railcar and a steam train with a direct connection.

You will also have the opportunity to cross the 45th parallel north, located exactly halfway between the North Pole and the Equator.

Lunch at one of our partner restaurants, or enjoy a guided gourmet tour of Lamastre with the “Rail&Papilles” experience.

Treat yourself to the famous Lou Pisadou, a travel cake made with chestnut-filled frangipane on a sweet pastry base, accompanied by chestnut cream and an almond dacquoise. It is THE ultimate cake to take with you on your travels!

After lunch, take the “Suivez le train” trail, a treasure hunt lasting about one hour and covering approximately 3 km, available on the Tag&Play Parcours connectés app.

At 3:30 pm, head to La Ferme du Châtaignier for a guided tour of the chestnut grove and processing workshop. Following the interpretation trail, discover the work of the Grange family over seven generations – a true historical treasure of the Pays de Lamastre!

Dinner at one of our partner restaurants in the Pays de Lamastre.

Overnight at one of our partner accommodations in the Pays de Lamastre.

DAY 3 – The Pays de Lamastre Through the Five Senses

Head to Nozières and its magnificent viewpoint, Le Balcon du Doux, where you can admire, among other sights, the peaks of Mont Blanc and Mont Ventoux, as well as the Ardèche plateau.

After enjoying the panorama and visiting the Church of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, climb higher to the Village miniature du Col du Buisson. Perched at an altitude of 920 metres, this granite miniature village was built by a retired enthusiast and lover of stone.

Next, head to Lafarre, a village built on a rocky promontory. From its altitude of 733 metres, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this charming place.

For lunch, head to Labatie-d’Andaure, where you can enjoy a meal at one of our partner restaurants.

Finally, head to the charming village of character of Désaignes and enjoy a guided tour of the castle-museum. Step into a true medieval world in the heart of the Ardèche. Admire the 14th-century castle, its spiral staircase, collection of tools, kitchen and more.

Continue with a tasting of local products in the castle’s wine cellar, a showcase for the region’s culinary heritage, followed by a guided tour of the Kokine craft brewery – a perfect way to delight your taste buds!