Les Gorges du Pont du Diable is a must-see natural wonder. Its dramatic cliffs, clear water, and unique geological formations will captivate you. The gorge is located in the Ardèche region and its name translates to the “Devil’s Bridge“.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to visit Les Gorges du Pont du Diable. We’ll share how to buy tickets and plan your visit to other nearby attractions and hiking trails. Join us and learn about the geology of the Ardèche.
Discovering Les Gorges du Pont du Diable
Les Gorges du Pont du Diable is in the Ardèche area in France. The “Devil’s Bridge Gorges” is meant to reflect the area’s dramatic landscape. The area is full of steep limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and of course, the iconic Pont du Diable, a natural bridge over the river. The bridge is considered a geological and historical treasure due to all the myths and stories surrounding its formation. The Gorges are part of the larger Gorges de l’Ardèche. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and kayakers travelling through the Alps in summer.
How to get there
Getting to Les Gorges du Pont du Diable is fairly straightforward. The site is located near the village of Saint-Just d’Ardèche, where many go as the starting point for hiking to the gorge. On the other hand, if you’re driving, the Gorge is just a 45-minute drive from Montélimar or around 30 minutes from Aubenas.
If you prefer to take public transport, there are buses available, however they are sporadic and do not take you to the entrance of the gorge.
How to get tickets and plan your visit
Planning a trip to Les Gorges du Pont du Diable is easy when you have all the correct information. Here’s everything you need to know about tickets, timings, and what to expect.
Tickets for Les Gorges du Pont du Diable are available both online and on-site. You don’t need to make a reservation, however, buying tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons for convenience.
Guided tours are also available, however we suggest booking tours ahead of time.
Prices
Adults (16+): €18
Youth (4-15 years): €14
Children (under 4): Free
Group discounts are available for groups of 20 or more—contact the site for details.
Opening Times
The site operates daily from April 1 to October 13 without requiring reservations.
September: Open from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM (last tickets sold at 4:00 PM).
October 1-13: Open from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
On average, visits take between 1 to 1.5 hours to complete the round trip. If you’re looking to make a day out of the excursion, there are many terraces along the way that serve local dishes. Take advantage by planning your lunch break at one of the many options available. Alternatively, if you’re looking to extend the outdoor adventure, try exploring nearby Jotty Dam.
How to Get There
Driving is the easiest way to reach the site. Located near Saint-Just, it’s a 45-minute drive from Montélimar and 30 minutes from Aubenas. Free parking is available near the entrance.
Visiting Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Wear layered clothing to help mediate changing temperatures.
- Check the expected weather conditions before leaving.
- Plan for food: pack a picnic or enjoy a meal at a nearby terrace restaurant.
Hiking around Les Gorges du Pont du Diable
Exploring the trails around Les Gorges du Pont du Diable is a great way to take in the area’s natural beauty. The most popular option is the GR4, a popular long-distance hiking path taking you through the Ardèche River and the surrounding cliffs. If you prefer a shorter adventure, the Sentier du Pont du Diable is a great choice. This moderate trail takes about 2-3 hours to complete and has stunning vistas of the gorges.
There are many hiking routes for all skill levels, while the Sentier du Pont du Diable is a manageable trek, the GR4 is more demanding. Along the way, you will see lush greenery, wildflowers, and diverse bird species.
The unique geology of the Ardèche region
The Ardèche region is well-known for its limestone formations and landscapes. Over thousands of years, the Ardèche River created deep ravines, with dramatic cliffs, and natural bridges like the Pont du Diable. It is here that the river cuts through the rock to leave a large archway over the water. You will see intricate stalactites, and layered limestone throughout this area.
A stalactite is a long rock formation that hangs from a cave’s roof. It forms as water containing lime slowly drips and leaves behind mineral deposits.
Nearby attractions to explore during your visit
After visiting Les Gorges du Pont du Diable, we highly recommend you take the opportunity to see other attractions in the Ardèche region. About a 1 hour drive away, the Caverne du Pont d’Arc has the oldest cave art in the world, dating back 36,000 years. You can see a detailed replica of the original cave, perfect for history lovers and a family-friendly experience.
A short drive will take you to the Aven d’Orgnac, a must-see underground cave system. We suggest signing up for a guided tour to take you through the cave chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
Finally, stop by the charming village of Saint-Martin-d’Ardèche. Located along the river, this quaint town is ideal for browsing local markets, or enjoying water activities like canoeing.
Visit Les Gorges du Pont du Diable for a natural adventure
Les Gorges du Pont du Diable is more than just a natural wonder. Visiting this area is the perfect getaway to see beautiful natural landscapes, discover geology and history and have some outdoor fun.
As you plan your visit, make your stay memorable by choosing one of Alpvision Residences’ many chalets. Offering lodging options throughout the French Alps, pick one of the many comfortable, well-located accommodations. Book your stay with Alpvision Residences today.
