A medieval village above the Ardèche, a pebble beach and canoes for hire.
About 32 km from Le Mas g’Ardéchois, Balazuc combines a medieval village, a riverside beach and canoe outings. Wander through its cobbled lanes and vaulted passages among the stone houses overlooking the Ardèche.
Below the village, the pebble beach beneath the bridge is a lovely spot to relax by the water. From the bridge and the village, enjoy views over the river and limestone cliffs.
Canoe and kayak hire is available beside the river for paddling trips on the Ardèche from Balazuc. Contact the hire company for routes, availability and river conditions.
Prehistory
- Traces of prehistoric human occupation have been found around Balazuc, including caves and rock shelters.
- The Baume de Ronze cave in particular has yielded Mousterian and Aurignacian remains.
Antiquity
- Before the Roman conquest, the area was inhabited by the Helvii, a Gallic people.
- Remains of a Roman villa have been uncovered at the Combe de Balazuc.
Middle Ages
- The village grew up around a medieval castle built in the 12th century.
- The castle belonged to the Balazuc family, local nobility.
- Balazuc was an important stronghold during the Hundred Years' War.
16th–18th centuries
- Balazuc prospered in the 16th century thanks to the silk industry.
- The village was later affected by the Wars of Religion and the revocation of the Edict of Nantes.
- In the 18th century, Balazuc was an important lavender-producing centre.
19th–20th centuries
- Balazuc declined economically in the 19th century.
- Tourism brought the village back to life in the 20th century.
- Today Balazuc is listed among the most beautiful villages in France.
Good to know
- Balazuc castle is now private property and cannot be visited.
- The village is famous for its stone houses and picturesque lanes.
- Balazuc is an ideal starting point for hikes in the Ardèche gorges.
Anecdotes
- The village has been used as a setting for several films and TV series.
- Legend has it that Pope Clement VI stayed at Balazuc castle in the 14th century.
