1000 Pailles

This is a particularly scenic part of the world, with lots of spectacular geological formations to check out while you’re here. You should probably start in the Gorges de le’Ardèche, hiring canoes/kayaks in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc (15 minutes' drive) to paddle down the clear water as far as the huge Pont d’Arc rock arch. There are also some great hikes and scenic drives to be done through the reserve that surrounds the gorges, and adventure centres in Vallon-Pont-d’Arc offer various activities like abseiling and canyoning. The sights aren’t all above ground though, you know – it’s also well worth going underground to see France’s largest showcave, L’Aven d’Orgnac (10 minutes), and to visit La Grotte Chauvet 2 (20 minutes), a huge reconstruction of the UNESCO-listed prehistoric cave. For other days out you may like to to have a fragrant stroll through Maison de la Lavande (half an hour), meet all sorts of beasts at Parc Animalier des Gorges de l’Ardèche (10 minutes) or tackle the zipwires and via ferrata climbing trails at Accrobranche Adventure Camp (half an hour).