A sensitive natural space
More than just a stroll, the high valleys of the Cance and Ay are an invitation to travel and escape. Awaken your senses and immerse yourself in a setting of intimacy and delicacy. From the sound of the water to that of the birds, from the abundant flora to the unique taste of a blueberry or a chanterelle offered along the way, dive into the heart of the valleys!
The Ay and the Cance dug their beds between rocky reliefs and forests The classified valleys Sensitive Natural Area are full of trails, wild corners, and viewpoints. Nature is lush and full of promise. Characteristic Mediterranean rivers, they both rush down the Vivarais mountains, forcefully cutting into the Rhône Piedmont. They carve out some of the most picturesque and wild gorges all the way to the confluence of the Rhône.
The Cance River
A haven of peace and greenery, the Cance winds its way from Vernosc-lès-Annonay to the Rhône. The D270 that runs alongside it is popular with cyclists. Beginners can rest assured, the Lalouvesc Tourist Office, which has been awarded the Accueil Vélo (Cycle Welcome) label, and our bike rental companies offer electrically assisted bicycles with numerous route departure points.
After crossing the tannery district of Annonay, step back in time in front of the monolithic rock and the Neolithic dolmen. They are located a few steps north of the Roche Pereandre. Its 39 vertical meters surrounded by legends and mysteries invite you to escape. A little further, the Moulin-sur-Cance suspension bridge This listed historical monument allows for a new journey into the past. Here, we are talking about the great industrial era of the valley.
Lucile Ortega
Lucile OrtegaThe Ay River
The Ay, the daughter of two rivers flowing through Satillieu (the Nant and the Malpertuis), flows to the Rhône over 32 km of a narrow valley. It is protected by the sanctuary of Notre Dame d'Ay, which overlooks it from its rocky spur. The river is home to a diverse fish population, a guarantee of the quality and purity of the water.
The No-Kill certified routes (all fish caught must be returned to the water alive) help keep the trout population intact and balanced. The valley is surprising for its geological richness, the finest example of which is the Chirat Blanc above Saint Symphorien de Mahun. The Afar love to take refuge there. The secretive atmosphere attracts hikers, the most intrepid of whom will dare to explore the Tourtel woods and the Gouaille valley.
An intimate and serene interlude, away from time. And away from the world! So much so that there's always a good reason to treat yourself to a walking tour. On horseback, by bike, or by sailboat... No, sorry, no boats here: instead, count on a view of the sky from the basket of a hot air balloon.
This adventure in the heart of a respected natural environment is made possible thanks to local communities. They are committed to managing, enhancing, and preserving natural heritage. The Ay offers a welcome shaded area during hot weather.
Guide to the Ay Valley
Lalouvesc Tourist Office
+04 75 67 84 20 XNUMX
The Sensitive Natural Area
Sensitive Natural Area : High Valleys of Cance and Ay are protected. This departmental title is given to sites representative of the Ardèche nature. It must be said that there are people to protect! Butterflies galore, insects, reptiles, fish, birds, all come to take refuge in the tranquility of the place. In this way deer, foxes, weasels and wild boars also take advantage of the moors and wild wastelands.
A landscape that provides a change of scenery. Some species are unique to rocky living conditions. For example Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Rock Swallows, Common Ravens and Black Redstarts. The same goes for the flora which is not to be outdone and the golden broom or the fushia carnation of the granites form a real painter's palette. Here is a green setting that will invite the traveler to daydream and wonder.
Lucile Ortega
Severine Moulin
Marinette Piaugeard
On the heights of the Ay
How about a two-day tour in the heart of the Ay valley? In the middle of the woods, crossing the pasture or along some remains of the ruins of La Barbe. Exactly 17 km of hiking takes you between Satillieu and Lalouvesc. The loop can be done on foot or by mountain bike. The bucolic paths roam the hillsides and rise offering the unforgettable spectacle of the panoramas over the valley. You will discover with wonder the hamlet of Veyrines and its XNUMXth century Romanesque church. A multi-faceted culture, adventure and nature trail.
Topoguide Ardèche Verte Walks and hikes
Val d'Ay booklet 4 euros
Lalouvesc Tourist Office
+04 75 67 84 20 XNUMX