Jaujac
A characterful village nestled in the heart of the mountains, seducing with its friendly atmosphere, between ancient alleyways and omnipresent volcanic heritage.
Just steps from the market square, the Chastelas neighborhood, with its ancient cobbled streets, offers a panoramic view of the village and the distant Jaujac volcano. At its feet, the stunning basaltic flows of the Lignon River transport you, while closest to the crater, the Maison du Parc des Monts d’Ardèche welcomes you for family discoveries.
What awaits you…
The Chastelas neighborhood
In the heart of the stones, the medieval neighborhood of Chastelas enchants you as you ascend its cobbled alleys. Follow the direction of its ancient keep and the remains of its medieval tower. After climbing its steps, you will discover a breathtaking view of the village and the Jaujac volcano. Congratulations! You are now in the oldest part of the village, where the stone houses perfectly illustrate the typical Cévennes architecture.
The cut of Jaujac
As the youngest volcano in Ardèche, it has preserved its entire strombolian cone, giving it a proud appearance on the heights of the village of Jaujac, with its easily recognizable shape in the landscape. Its successive eruptions gave birth to the basaltic flows along the Lignon River (among the most beautiful in Europe), easily observable from the beach of La Turbine.
Basaltic organs of the Lignon
Originating from the Jaujac volcano, the powerful lava flow poured into the Lignon River, forming remarkable basaltic organs with heights reaching up to 50 meters in some places! The length of the flow does not exceed 3.5 km.
The Turbine site, besides its soothing beauty, allows you to observe this formation up close: real and false columns, prisms. An immersion into geological times…
The gourmet meeting
To your baskets! On the Place du Champ de Mars with its southern charm (boules games and bars are a must), the markets take place every Tuesday and Friday morning throughout the year. It’s an opportunity to stock up on delicious local products and enjoy a coffee under the plane trees.
On Wednesday evenings during the summer, artisans and producers invite you to discover their creations and products, with concerts to end the evening in music.
For history enthusiasts…
A triad of castles
Jaujac boasts a rich architectural heritage and takes pride in hosting three very different castles: Castrevieille Castle, a venue for exhibitions and events; Rochemure Castle, the headquarters of the Regional Natural Park of Monts d’Ardèche; and Bruget Castle, a private family residence that offers visits on certain dates.
The “roman” bridge
Did you know? This name is a bit mischievous because it’s not Roman! This picturesque bridge spanning the Rieuclar River actually dates back to the Middle Ages (although its exact date is unknown). It provides a beautiful viewpoint of the basaltic flow along the Lignon River, and in the fall, during Cévenol episodes, the stream transforms into a sublime torrent.
The park house
Ah, the Geopark of Monts d’Ardèche… a whole universe to discover!
Its headquarters are located at Château de Rochemure in Jaujac.
A former farmhouse, transformed into a pleasure castle in the 19th century, it houses exhibitions, a shop, and a reception area.
You can visit it from June to October, and it is also the starting point of the “Coulée Vive” trail that will take you to the heart of the crater of the Jaujac volcano, discovering aspects of Ardèche’s heritage along the way (clède, terraces, spring…).
For outdoor enthusiasts
Mountainbike
For all off-road adventurers! Come and test the forest roads and hilly paths of our mountain bike trails, all freely accessible. From the average course to the pro-level with a more intense route, Jaujac offers everyone a guaranteed thrill with the added bonus of a panoramic view in the great outdoors…
Climbing
Climb in the heart of nature! Not far from the village, the climbing site of Tras les Baumes is set on granite and is an ideal site for initiation with several routes available on site. Whether you choose climbing independently or with guidance, find here all our climbing sites and our specialized partners in rope sports.
The sports enthusiast’s deal
In the village of Jaujac, you will find a free and permanent multi-sports field (in the Sausses district): volleyball, badminton, football, tennis, and many other activities are possible all year round for families to enjoy this nature hotspot!
Jaujac is also labeled “bike-friendly” (Accueil Vélo) and offers visitors a repair kit and dedicated information at the Jaujac Tourist Office.
