Ardeche Mixed Activity Week

8 days
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Small Group Tour
The Ardeche region of France is a spectacular mix of mountains, plateaux and valleys, and of course the 125 mile long river from which it takes its name. The river flows through an immense gorge, which contains the famous 30 metre high natural arch – the Pont D’Arc. Popular for years with tourists, adventure-seekers and cyclists, it offers the perfect environ...

Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate

Highlights

    • Start Joyeuse.
    • Transfer to high ropes course for a day zipping through the treetops.
    • A day's cycling through the dramatic vistas and villages of the region.
    • Free day to visit the local market, with optional wine tour, cycling or walking.
    • The first day of the spectacular kayak down the Ardeche River; overnight bivouac.
    • We kayak the final section of the river, finishing at a riverside bar in St. Martin.
    • Day trip to the prehistoric cave at Aven d'Orgnac; stops en route for great views over the Ardeche River and gorge a vineyard visit.
    • End Joyeuse.

What's this trip about?

    The Ardeche region of France is a spectacular mix of mountains, plateaux and valleys, and of course the 125 mile long river from which it takes its name. The river flows through an immense gorge, which contains the famous 30 metre high natural arch – the Pont D’Arc. Popular for years with tourists, adventure-seekers and cyclists, it offers the perfect environment for a week of adventure. Amongst the standout activities on offer here is a two day kayak through the gorge, complete with overnight bivouac. We also have a day swinging high in the treetops in a challenging high ropes course, a cycle through the dramatic vistas of the region and time spent on the beautiful limestone cliff faces themselves learning to climb and abseil. From our base in the mediaeval town of Joyeuse, our other discovery this week will be the enchanting cave at Aven d’Orgnac. This sunny area of southern France is just perfect for a week of active exploration with of course wonderful wine and cuisine on hand to complete the experience.A mix of different activities in spectacular surroundings.

Details

Itinerary focusOperator does not provide
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 16 people
Age range16 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityJoyeuse
End CityJoyeuse

Destinations

  • Europe
  • France

Trip includes

    • All breakfasts
    • 2 lunches and 1 dinner
    • All accommodation (see below)
    • All transport and listed activities
    • Tour leader throughout
    • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

Popular Trips

Itinerary

Travel Map
Flight Inclusive

Day 1 Fly to Marseille; transfer to Joyeuse (approx 2 hrs 30 mins).

We start in Joyeuse, a mediaeval village in the heart of the Ardeche region. Legend has it that the village was named after the famous sword of Charlemagne, who ruled the Franks from 768 - 814. The town is a mix of old and new, with cafés, artisan shops, bistros and b...

Day 2 Transfer to high ropes course for a day zipping through the treetops.

We transfer to the ropes course to get kitted up ready to try out the zip lines and routes just below the forest canopy. The various courses include monkey bridges, suspension bridges and jungle swings. You are free to choose your difficulty level to either just enjoy...

Day 3 A day's cycling through the dramatic vistas and villages of the region.

The Ardeche is a hotbed of cycling and features regularly on the Tour de France. Not surprisingly therefore there are numerous routes we can visit to explore the region. After picking up the bikes we set off for a day of what the French call 'cyclotourisme', with some...

Day 4 Day trip to the prehistoric cave at Aven d'Orgnac; stops en route for great views over the Ardeche River and Gorge; visit local vineayard for winetasting.

We set off for Aven d'Orgnac, stopping along the way to enjoy the fantastic views on offer. We then visit the mediaeval village of Vallon Pont d'Arc at the head of the Ardeche Gorge, where we stop for an authentic French lunch. As the lunch is not included it is of co...

Day 5 The first day of the spectacular kayak down the Ardeche River; overnight bivouac.

We begin the kayak descent, a two day adventure through the Ardeche Gorge. Starting by the legendary Pont D'Arc, a 60m wide and 54m high rock arch spanning the river, we set off after the initial briefing and instruction with time to get used to our maneouvreable kaya...

Day 6 We kayak the final section of the river, finishing at a riverside bar in St. Martin.

After sleeping out under the stars you’ll rise to the sounds of the outdoors. Breakfast will be prepared by the river team. Once dry sacks are loaded, and the camp is packed up we’ll set off for the final day of the descent, ready to face more rapids and stunning scen...

Day 7 Rock climbing and abseiling in the scenic limestone cliffs above the Chassezac Gorge. Rock Climbing and abseiling in the scenic limestone cliffs above the Chassezac Gorge. Day trip to the prehistoric cave at Aven d'Orgnac; stops en route for great views

Day 8 Transfer to Marseille; fly to London.

Our trip ends in Joyeuse.

Land Only

Day 1 Start Joyeuse.

We start in Joyeuse, a mediaeval village in the heart of the Ardeche region. Legend has it that the village was named after the famous sword of Charlemagne, who ruled the Franks from 768 - 814. The town is a mix of old and new, with cafés, artisan shops, bistros and b...

Day 2 Transfer to high ropes course for a day zipping through the treetops.

We transfer to the ropes course to get kitted up ready to try out the zip lines and routes just below the forest canopy. The various courses include monkey bridges, suspension bridges and jungle swings. You are free to choose your difficulty level to either just enjoy...

Day 3 A day's cycling through the dramatic vistas and villages of the region.

The Ardeche is a hotbed of cycling, most notably in June when the famous Ardechoise Cyclosportive takes place. Around 12 thousand cycling enthusiasts test themselves over routes of varying distance, with hundreds more lining the routes to cheer them on. Not surprising...

Day 4 Free day to visit the local market, with optional wine tour, cycling or walking.

Today is free to take at your own pace. Joyeuse offers a bustling market every week which is worth a visit, whilst there is also the opportunity to take a tour of a local vineyard. Alternatively a leisurely stroll followed by a long lunch is a great way to relax in su...

Day 5 The first day of the spectacular kayak down the Ardeche River; overnight bivouac.

We begin the kayak descent, a two day adventure through the Ardeche Gorge. Starting by the legendary Pont D'Arc, a 60m wide and 54m high rock arch spanning the river, we set off after the initial briefing and instruction with time to get used to our maneouvreable kaya...

Day 6 We kayak the final section of the river, finishing at a riverside bar in St. Martin.

After sleeping out under the stars you’ll rise to the sounds of the outdoors. Breakfast will be prepared by the river team. Once dry sacks are loaded, and the camp is packed up we’ll set off for the final day of the descent, ready to face more rapids and stunning scen...

Day 7 Day trip to the prehistoric cave at Aven d'Orgnac; stops en route for great views over the Ardeche River and gorge a vineyard visit.

We set off for Aven d'Orgnac, stopping along the way to enjoy the fantastic views on offer. We then visit the mediaeval village of Vallon Pont d'Arc at the head of the Ardeche Gorge, where we stop for an authentic French lunch. As the lunch is not included it is of co...

Day 8 End Joyeuse.

Our trip ends in Joyeuse.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $1,675
Price per day$209
Last Updated: 8/2/2018

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Exodus Travels.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tour Operator

Exodus Travels

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It is all about adventure. That is what Exodus was founded upon and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.

At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.

This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.

Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.

All our office staff have a passion for travel and adventure, and between us we’ve notched up experience that spans 171 different countries. That’s not all. In their former lives, our team members have been professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists and mountain bike gurus – so no-one is better placed to create tours that appeal to a wide range of specialist interests.

Their care in putting all the details in place really shines through too. Extensive planning, research, fact-finding and training are a sign of our commitment to providing a holiday where your enjoyment, value for money and safety come first. It’s a telling reason why we remain one of the leading worldwide adventure tour companies. It is no exaggeration to say that our tour leaders can make a world of difference to the enjoyment of your holiday – so we choose them carefully. The result is that, in 2013, 93% of our clients stated that their leader exceeded their expectations. Where possible, we train and employ local leaders because they can provide invaluable insights that enrich the trip. What’s more, this investment in local staff really helps us benefit both them and their community.

Why we love this operator
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
What they’re known for
Global trips to both classic and exotic destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and discovery of local culture.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Travel insurance
    • Single accommodation (available on request)
    • Visas or vaccinations

Accommodation

6 nights at a comfortable hotel with en suite facilities, one night camping Travel by private air-conditioned minibus No experience necessary Reasonable level of fitness required Family departures available,
Cancellation policy

The cancellation policies of this trip when booked through Travelstride are determined by the stated policies of the tour operator - Exodus Travels.

If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel a confirmed booking you must notify Travelstride in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when it is received in writing by Travelstride and will be effective from the date on which we receive it.

If You Cancel Your Holiday
You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the lead name or your travel agent must be received at our offices. 

Since we incur costs in canceling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exceptions below): 

  • More than 42 days - No cancellation fee. Deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original booking. Any remaining balance will be refundedThis excludes all non-refundable costs as set out in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 41 and 21 days (inclusive) - No cancellation fee. Balance and deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original bookingThis excludes all non-refundable costs as further explained in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 20 and 15 days (inclusive) - 80% of the holiday cost
  • 14 days or less; or failure to join the holiday (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Certain trips may involve different cancellation charges; you will be advised if this is applicable to your holiday during the booking process.For Polar holidays, the following cancellation charges will be made for all Polar holidays. Period before departure in which you notify us: 

Cancelation charge

  • More than 133 days - Deposit only
  • 133 days or less (or failure to join the holiday) (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Notes (i) Your deposit is non-refundable, even if the cancellation charge calculated is lower than the deposit amount paid; (ii) If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges; (iii) certain travel arrangements may be subject to higher cancellation charges and could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements from the moment the booking is confirmed.

If You Change Your Booking

If, after our Booking Confirmation has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the lead name or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of $60, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration (including those charged by third party suppliers who provide the component parts of your booking).  You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure provided that the new lead passenger accepts the transfer and these Terms and Conditions. Both you and the new traveler are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer. Please bear in mind that certain airlines and other transport providers treat changes as a cancellation and charge accordingly, up to 100% of the cost for that part of the arrangement. Where applicable these charges will be passed on to you.

If We Cancel Your Booking

Exodus reserves the right to cancel an itinerary before departure for any reason whatsoever, including too few participants ,logistical problems, a Force Majeure Event (as defined in Section 8), or any other circumstances that may make operation of the trip inadvisable. All trip payments received will be promptly refunded, and this refund will be the limit of Exodus’s liability without any further obligation on Exodus’s part. Exodus is not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees, or other trip-related expenses.

If We Change Your Booking

  1. Changes to the price. We can change your holiday price after you’ve booked, only in certain circumstances. Changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked.

  2. Changes other than the price. It is a term of your booking that we are able to make changes to any aspect of your booking. If the change is insignificant, we will ensure that you are notified about it. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your accommodation to another of the same or higher standard. If we are forced by circumstances beyond our control to alter significantly any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.

    2.1 - We will contact you and you will have the choice of accepting the change or having a refund of all monies paid. You can also accept an alternative holiday, where we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be canceled.

    2.2 - If you choose to accept a refund then that is the only liability we have and we will not be liable for any further sums, compensation or otherwise and you are advised to adequately insure yourselves against cancellation for any reason

Please note that insurance premiums and amendments charges are not refundable in any circumstances. 

Once you have put down a deposit for a tour, you are unable to cancel and re-book within a promotional period and we reserve the right to amend the pricing on any new booking you make within that time. If you cancel a tour and book the same tour under a promotional code, we reserve the right to decline the booking.

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration or cancellation could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements in addition to the charge above.

If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Where possible, we will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have already paid to us.

For more additional details, see the booking conditions of TruTravels at the following web address: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions.

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
Dinner: Continental breakfasts are included at the hotel, and all meals whilst on the gorge descent will be provided. These will consist of 2 packed lunches taken at the riverside, a feast of a barbecue in the evening and a breakfast of cereal, fruit, tea and coffee.
Age Requirements
16 years and up
Travelstride Take
France may not spring to mind when one thinks adventure travel, but that is exactly what you’ll experience on this Exodus tour. Enjoy 8 days in the Ardeche region to hike, kayak, go cycling, and even abseiling if you desire. In addition you can go wine tasting and enjoy superb French cuisine. - Stride Editor
Additional Information
Trip ID
exodus-ADB

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