Ardèche, Department in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
This administrative division sits in southeastern France, stretching between the Rhône valley to the east and the Massif Central highlands to the west. The terrain ranges from river banks and lava plateaus to forests of oak and chestnut that shape the landscape.
The area became a separate administrative unit in March 1790 during the French Revolution, when older provinces were reorganized. Earlier settlements stretch back to Roman times, with trade routes following the course of rivers.
The area celebrates traditional chestnut festivals, and weekly markets feature farmers selling local products like goat cheese and cured meats. Cooking often includes chestnuts, mushrooms, and herbs gathered from wooded hillsides, ingredients that have supported the regional diet for generations.
Travelers find smaller towns as bases for hiking, driving along gorges, or visiting old hill villages. Roads are often winding, and during high summer it helps to start early or plan activities for late afternoon.
The oldest known cave paintings in Europe lie inside a grotto here, showing animal depictions created roughly thirty thousand years ago. Access to the original cave is restricted, but a full replica allows visitors to view the artworks.
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