Ardèche train

Travel back in time aboard historic steam trains (Mastrou, Train des Gorges, etc.). The railway, carved into the cliffside, offers a picturesque view of the Doux Gorges, inaccessible except by train!

Several trips are offered depending on the period:

The Mastro:
This is the name given to the steam train that has been running to Lamastre for 130 years! Covering the entire 28 kilometers of the line, this historic journey is an unforgettable experience along the Doux Valley. After passing through the heart of the Gorges, the landscapes open up to the surrounding villages, offering panoramic views of the Ardèche countryside, chestnut groves, orchards, and coniferous and deciduous forests. A stop in Boucieu-le-Roi (halfway through the journey) allows the locomotive to refill its water tanks. At the terminus, passengers can watch it turn around on the turntable and have three hours to visit the town of Lamastre, stroll along the footpaths, and enjoy its many restaurants.
Day trip round trip.

The Gorge Train:
Full steam ahead, travelers discover the wildest part of the Gorges du Doux, in the heart of the Sensitive Natural Area of ​​the Doux Valley. The route ends at the charming little station of Colombier-le-Vieux / Saint-Barthélémy-le-Plain. Arrived at its destination, the 44-tonne locomotive returned to the swing bridge operated by force of arms! An impressive spectacle not to be missed before the return.
Half-day return trip.

The Train + Vélorail day:
Combine the 2 activities Train de l'Ardèche and Vélorail des Gorges du Doux!
Departing from Tournon St Jean station, board the “Mastrou” for a timeless journey. Discover the Gorges du Doux, classified as a Sensitive Natural Area, to the characterful village of Boucieu-le-Roi. Then embark on board "pedal carts" for an 8km course on the upper valley of the Doux. Crossing orchards and panoramic views of the villages of the valley punctuate the adventure!
From April to October, each day of circulation of the Mastrou:
10:15 am: departure from Tournon St Jean by steam train
11:00 a.m.: arrival at Boucieu le Roi; free time to discover the village (former royal bailiwick) and lunch
13:30 p.m.: start of the vélorail activity (Châtaigniers course over 8 km in the heart of the Upper Doux Valley, ascent by railcar and descent by vélorail) followed by a comfort break
16:15 p.m.: departure from Boucieu le Roi by steam train for the return
17:00 p.m.: end of the day at Tournon St Jean station
Limited number of places - Reservation strongly recommended!

The Lamastre Express:
From Lamastre, discover the upper valley of the Doux as far as Boucieu le Roi. A 14 km rail ride alternating between direct rail and steam train! Circulates every Sunday in May, June and September as well as every day of Mastrou circulation in July and August.

Special bikes:
Labeled "Accueil Vélo", the Train de l'Ardèche offers cyclists bicycle parks, connection sockets to recharge pedelecs... and on board the Mastrou, take advantage of the presence of a fitted van to board your bike (8 € per bicycle or trailer). Ideal service to continue the experience on the DolceVia and the ViaRhona! Mandatory reservation.

1st Class coaches:
Plush velvet seats and guaranteed comfort, €9 supplement. Reservations required - Dogs not allowed in 1st class.

Services at Tournon St Jean de Muzols station:
• Espace Musée (free admission): the museum presents the adventure of the railway, its history and its techniques thanks to unique collector's items such as the luxurious lounge car classified as a "Historic Monument"... ideal for prolonging the experience of the rail epic!
• Buffet-refreshment area "Viv'arrêt": the refreshment area offers hot/cold drinks, snacks, ice cream and gourmet treats to delight the taste buds!
• Shop area: souvenirs, toys, bookstore and personalized items are offered as well as a wide choice of local products distributed by local partner producers.
• Picnic area: sheltered and shaded, the picnic area is continuously accessible to all travellers.
• Parking: a large free car park accommodates all types of vehicles; a drop-off point and places for people with reduced mobility are located near the platforms and toilets. Bike boxes are available, provide a padlock to secure them.
• Soft track link: Tournon St Jean station is located 4 km from the historic center of Tournon sur Rhône, linked by a soft track directly connected to the ViaRhôna.
• Disabled access: Tournon St Jean station is accessible to people with reduced mobility. To access the trains, however, it is essential to be able to climb the equivalent of three steps independently.

To get here : 4 km from Tournon sur Rhône follow the signs for "Train de l'Ardèche" on the road network.

Pets allowed : yes

Details regarding animals : Must be kept on a short leash. Dogs are not allowed in first class carriages.

Groups accepted : from 20 to 650 people