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, furry, pranksters and even a little thieves... doesn't that mean anything to you? They live near water and come out mostly at night. They find refuge during the day in caves, posts (dens) or the money (underground) of Northern Ardèche. Their favorite activity, which makes them laugh a lot: stealing food or tormenting the inhabitants by placing their little elf bottoms on chimneys to smoke out the whole household.
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: to find a precious rosary stolen by the elves with the help of 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 will follow the wooden beads hanging from the trees, answer the riddles, discover Flora and fauna. As you walk along the river for a breath of fresh forest air in summer, you'll encounter the Afar people with their mischievous air. It's said that elves live there on the banks of the stream, using the old mill facilities to hide.
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 set up in the summer of 2017, according to a concept by Luth Médiations. You will find there the magnificent work of the wood sculptor Maxime CadouxThis luthier artist based in the Bauges massif has given a soul to all the Afars you will meet. Mischievous smiles and mysterious looks accompany you. They give the Val d'Or a unique atmosphere for a walk full of surprises and memories.
Camille Roberjot
Severine Moulin
Severine Moulin
Severine Moulin
