Driving the scenic D290 road through Gorges de l'Ardeche
Gorges de l'Ardeche is a picturesque canyon situated in France’s Ardèche department, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It’s one of the famous balcony roads of the country.
How to drive through Gorges de l'Ardèche?
The road through the gorges, D290 or Route des Gorges, is fully paved and runs through the Natural Reserve of the Ardèche Gorges. The road is very scenic though it might be challenging for those with a fear of heights. Some sections are narrow and wind along the rim of the gorges, providing stunning views of limestone cliffs that rise up to 300 meters.
How long is the road through Gorges de l'Ardèche?
The road is 49.3 km (30.63 miles) long, running from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc to Saint-Just-d'Ardèche.
Is Gorges de l'Ardèche worth it?
Tucked away in the southern part of the country, Gorges de l'Ardèche are often called the "Grand Canyon of France." It features alluvial deposits, grottoes, caves, and canyons that plunge over 285m (935 ft) deep. It is an important historical and archaeological site. Over a million tourists visit annually to see its canyons, cliffs, and caves. Locals affectionately call it the "European Grand Canyon."
How long does it take to drive through Gorges de l'Ardèche?
Driving the scenic route through the gorges, with 11 viewing points, can easily take an entire day if you plan to stop frequently to enjoy the views. There are many pull-over spots for photos. To avoid crowds, start early in the morning, but note that parking can be limited at some viewing points. The road is prone to rock slides, so park in designated tourist spots to avoid hazards.