The legend of the Afars
According to the legend of Haut-Vivarais, little half-fairy, half-devil creatures hide along the streams. And if they show up, beware! It is only to torment the inhabitants.
Severine MoulinMischievous little elves
Small, hairy, mischievous, and even a bit thieving… does that ring a bell? They live near water and are mostly nocturnal. During the day, they find refuge in the caves, burrows, or underground passages of northern Ardèche. Their favorite activity, which makes them laugh the most, is stealing food or tormenting the inhabitants by placing their little elf bottoms on chimneys to fill the whole house with smoke.
These elves are one of the nuggets of popular traditions and legends of Ardèche Grand Air. Nothing prevents you from looking for its funny inhabitants at your own risk.
A stroll for children
Go with the family in search of the Afars, these elves who inhabit the tales of northern Ardèche to discover the legend of the infinite rosary. Follow the wooden beads, they will lead you to their hiding place...
Your mission, should you choose to accept it: find a precious rosary stolen by elves using the 5 sculptures that indicate the presence of a hiding place.
Here is a walk that will appeal to everyone, young and old: the Afars trail from the Lalouvesc playground allows a nice loop of about 1h30.
Severine Moulin
Severine MoulinFollow the wooden beads
You'll follow the wooden beads hanging from the trees, solve riddles, and discover the local flora and fauna. Walking along the river, enjoying the cool forest breeze in summer, you might encounter the mischievous Afar people. Legend has it that elves live there by the stream, using the old mill's machinery as hiding places.
A few stops along the trail: the remains of the Scie, the stream and meadows of Val d'Or, the old reservoir and mill race, the clothesline, the waterfall of the old mill.
Almost living sculptures
The trail was created in the summer of 2017, based on a concept by the firm Luth Médiations. Along the way, you'll find the magnificent work of wood sculptor Maxime Cadoux . This luthier, based in the Bauges mountains, has breathed life into all the Afar people you'll encounter. Mischievous smiles and mysterious glances accompany you, giving the Val d'Or a unique atmosphere for a walk full of surprises and memories.
Camille Roberjot
Severine Moulin
Severine Moulin
Severine Moulin
