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Family walking with a donkey in the Ardèche
For a unique family experience we present a leisurely walk discovering the beautiful landscapes of the Ardèche, all in the company of a friendly a donkey. You follow ancient mule tracks at the gentle rhythm of your four legged companion each day.
The accommodation is in traditional farmhouses, with comfortable welcoming rooms, offering regional home cooking. This is a real step back to nature for all ages, with fresh county air, gentle walking through forests and meadows, comfortable traditional accommodations with good wholesome food and all made a little bit more special by the company of your unusual friend. Plus a surprising bonus for the children, seasonal swimming pool at each night's stop.
Please see the 'Additional Pricing Information' section for pricing information for this family holiday. Shown price for a family of 4 sharing a family room, please contact us for other options.
Holiday Highlights
- Your donkey will be a friendly loyal companion carrying your picnics each day
- Gentle rambling off the beaten track
- Beautifully restored traditional farmhouse accommodation
- Stunning views of the Rhône Valley and the distant Alps
- Full board: traditional local wholesome dinners, traditional French breakfasts and daily picnics provided
- All accommodation has seasonal swimming pools, ideal for the children
What's Included
Itinerary & Hotels
1
Arrive at Champis day 1
- Summary
Arrive Valence station and short bus ride to Champis and your first authentic farmhouse Ardéchoise, parking for cars arrivals is available. Surrounded by calm and nature you may already start to feel that you have stepped back in time. Children will love to have a splash in the above ground pool and will have a healthy appetite ready for the family homespun dinner. An aperitif drink and wine is included.
- Hotel
La Blache du Mazel
ChampisAn authentic Ardéchoise farmhouse in a beautiful calm and very rural setting, offering rooms and dinner with a warm family welcome.
Facilities
The rooms are basic but comfortable, spacious and clean, washing and toilet facilities are independent of the room.
Board
- Cuisine
2
Loop walk from Champis day 2
- Summary
Introduction to your donkey and then a short circular route; a chance for you to get to know and understand your new friend. All along the route you will have stunning views over the Rhône Valley as you ramble through vineyards and woodland.
4 mi
(6 km)3
Champis to Alboussière day 3
- Summary
Set off on an adventure with your donkey carrying your rucksack and picnic, weave along the plateau of the Ardéche and the Rhône Valley with beautiful panoramic views all the way to your next accommodation.
- Hotel
Domaine de L'Abéale
AlboussièreRestored 17th Century farmhouse offering 3* chambre d'hôte with evening meals.
The property features 3 hectares of hilly countryside overlooking a superb panorama, and a private hillside lake (the abéale!)Facilities
For relaxation a swimming pool, solarium and deck are open until 8pm. The Wellness Centre is for the private use of guests with relaxation facilities (power shower, whirlpool spa, sauna) and fitness equipment (bike and weight bench).
It is possible to book massages with Shiatsu & yoga available (subject to availability & advance booking)Board
- Cuisine
8 mi
(13 km)4
Loop ride from Alboussière day 4
- Summary
Another stunning route along old mule tracks with a mix of meadows and woodlands with all the fauna and flora that you would expect to find in this unspoiled region. Return to your welcoming farmhouse for a second night and why not ease the muscles in the sauna before a convivial traditional dinner.
6 mi
(10 km)5
Alboussière to Saint Sylvestre day 5
- Summary
Head off on a pleasant walk on the higher plateau of the Ardèche Valley, your companion will be used to the terrain. Between extensive farmland and dense forests, the ever changing landscape will offer stunning scenery throughout. Arrive at your next accommodation nestled in the Ardèche mountains, in time for the homemade dinner made with the homegrown produce of the farm.
- Hotel
La Ferme de Blanc
Saint-SylvestreFamily run chambre d'hôte set in the beautiful rural setting, rooms are traditional farmhouse rooms with ensuite. At 500 meters above sea level, the farm lies in the middle of nature, hiking trails and panoramic views. It is also home to a wide variety of farm animals that young and old can enjoy watching closely.
Facilities
- Baby bath
- Books and toys for children
- Swimming pool
- Hair dryer & Iron available on request
Board
- Cuisine
8 mi
(13 km)6
Saint Sylvestre to Champis day 6
- Summary
A hearty organic breakfast before setting off for the last journey with your donkey. Along the Serre Long at 600m altitude you will see fantastic views of the Mont Ventoux and even the Mont Blanc on a clear day. On arrival in Champis you say goodbye to your travelling companion and return to your car (or a transfer is included for rail travellers) back to Saint Sylvestre and La Ferme du Blanc for your last night in the Ardèche mountains.
5 mi
(7 km)
Route & Location
Customise Your Holiday
Additional Pricing Information
Pricing is based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing a family room.
Pricing for couples or solo travellers is also available, please contact us for a quote.
Please call us on +44 (0)1580 214010 for a customised quote.