Les Roches de Peyrhomme are situated on the outskirts of Rochepaule, a small town at 850 meters altitude, north of Ardèche and not too far from Saint-Agrève.
Views of Rochepaule, July 2007
It’s a region with magnificent countryside, ideal for breathing in fresh air whilst momentarily forgetting the tornado of everyday life.
Camping, hiking, cycling, blueberry and mushroom gathering, collecting pinecones to light the wood fire and looking out for wild animals are activities not to be missed during a holiday to this little haven of peace.
You’ll have understood by now, just as my great grandparents and my parents did before me, that I have fallen in love with this countryside, with the calmness that it gives off and with the feeling of revitalisation when you return. Of course, daily life here is different, and without means of transport it’s nearly impossible unless you’re retired. It’s a really great little area though, where you can inhale the scent of the pine forest and hear the soft trickling of the stream whilst walking, as a family or a couple.
Here, speaking of strolling… Les Roches de Peyrhomme can be accessed from a path at the heart of nature, through trees and long grass. The direction to follow is indicated in the village. The journey from Rochepaule isn’t too long, perhaps around twenty minutes, and the walk isn’t difficult; you could take children, as long as you’re careful of prickly plants and little stones that could be tripped over. Once you arrive at Les Roches de Peyrhomme, high up, in the middle of the shrubbery, you arrive at a panoramic view of the mountains opposite and the valley, a real mosaic of colours that’s a pleasure to the eyes.
As it’s higher up, the wind blows stronger there but it’s nice to stay stood, or sat for a moment to contemplate this large area in the calm surroundings. It’s also rare that there are other people around. The most audacious could approach the edge or climb onto the rocks, being careful not to fall into the emptiness; )
If you’re close to Rochepaule, I really recommend dropping by, it’s a magnificent, peaceful place where one feels free and at one with nature. ♥
