Camping Les Truffières

The spectacular Gorges de l'Ardèche, aka the European Grand Canyon, is a top destination for outsdoorsy hols in France, and a mere 15-minute drive away from the site. This is land that you could spend weeks and months at, taking in its eye-wateringly scenic landscapes on walks or drives, or signing up for canoeing, kayaking and many other activities. Several active days out are within easy reach; perhaps the easiest being the one organised for guests by the Camping Les Truffières team, kayaking from the popular Pont d'Arc to Sauze or Saint-Martin (it's a 26-kilometre paddle, so get those biceps flexed). A six-kilometre gorgewards descent is also available nearby: ask the team to point you in the right direction towards it (down, most likely…) Time to give those aching muscles a little respite? Set off for Pierrelatte (20 minutes' drive) to meet the snappy residents of La Ferme aux Crocodiles, scoot over to Château de Grignan (40 minutes) or stroll among the stalagmites and stalactites at Aven d'Orgnac (35 minutes). It'd no doubt also be a fine idea to replenish your energy with a visit to the sweet museum and nougat shops in Montélimar (40 minutes).