A must-see symbol of the Ardèche Gorges, Pont d'Arc is a natural arch carved by the river over thousands of years. Around thirty metres high and sixty metres wide, it marks the entrance to the Ardèche Gorges, one of France's most photographed natural landscapes. From Les Cabritas in Flaviac, it's about an hour's drive to reach this exceptional site, via Aubenas and Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.
An arch shaped by the river
Pont d'Arc owes its existence to a former meander of the Ardèche river, which the water eventually cut straight through the limestone rock tens of thousands of years ago. The result is spectacular: a natural stone bridge under which the river now flows, offering one of the most iconic images of Ardèche. The site is part of the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve, protected for the richness of its wildlife, flora and limestone landscapes.
Around the arch, several signposted viewpoints let you admire the site without heading down to the river, particularly from the scenic Gorges road that overlooks the canyon for several kilometres.
What to do at Pont d'Arc
Pont d'Arc is above all a popular swimming spot in summer, with calm waters and pebble beaches. It's also the traditional starting point for the famous canoe-kayak descent of the Ardèche Gorges, which lets you paddle straight under the arch before continuing through the canyon's meanders to Sauze or Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the trails running along the cliffs, while photographers flock here at sunrise and sunset to capture the light on the rock.
Good to know before you visit
During peak summer season, the Pont d'Arc site and its car parks get very busy: it's best to arrive early in the morning, especially if you plan to canoe or want to enjoy the pebble beaches in peace. Several operators offer canoe and kayak rental for the day or half-day from Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, with or without a guide. Also bring sturdy shoes to reach the elevated viewpoints, and sun protection, as the site offers little shade around midday. The scenic Gorges de l'Ardèche road, which runs along the canyon for about twenty kilometres, is well worth the detour for its many signposted viewpoints.
Practical info from Les Cabritas
- Distance from Flaviac: about 1h by car
- Best time to go: May to September for swimming and canoeing
- Great for: swimming, canoeing/kayaking, hiking, photography
Fancy discovering Pont d'Arc from your cottage in Ardèche?
Les Cabritas welcomes you in Flaviac, at the heart of Ardèche, for a comfortable stay with a private pool, just a stone's throw from the region's most beautiful sites.
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