Vals-les-Bains(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Valréas, the top family-friendly option is Les Chalets du Mont Dore, a mountain-style chalet hotel offering spacious family suites with fireplaces and private balconies overlooking the Ardèche Mountains. The property features child-friendly hiking trails, a natural thermal bath, and on-site activities like pottery workshops. Another excellent choice is Hôtel Le Val d'Arles, known for its Provençal charm, organic restaurant, and garden rooms perfect for kids. Both hotels provide warm, authentic experiences in a peaceful rural setting.

The town center of Valréas is the ideal area for lodging, located just steps from the Municipal Square and Notre-Dame Church. It offers easy access to local markets, cafés, and artisan shops. The streets are quiet and tree-lined, making it perfect for travelers seeking tranquility. For scenic views, consider staying in the Le Bosquet hillside district, where many vacation villas offer panoramic vistas of the Ardèche Valley and are close to hiking trails and nature reserves.

Don’t miss the Fête de la Truffe (Truffle Festival) held annually in summer, featuring truffle hunting tours, gourmet tastings, and local cooking demonstrations. Visit a traditional Ardèche pottery workshop to create your own handcrafted piece. In the evening, attend a candlelit concert at the historic church, where live music blends with the ambiance of centuries-old architecture—truly a unique cultural immersion in southern France.

Yes, the Thermes de Valréas spa resort is highly recommended. Its mineral-rich waters are renowned for relieving joint pain and skin conditions. The spa offers full treatments including mud baths, steam rooms, and aromatherapy sessions. Some rooms even feature direct access to private thermal pools, allowing guests to unwind in complete privacy. It’s an exceptional retreat for wellness and relaxation amidst stunning natural surroundings.

Near Valréas, explore the Monts d’Ardèche National Nature Park, with well-marked trails through limestone cliffs, wildflower meadows, and ancient stone farmhouses. The Chutes de la Cévenne trail (3 km) leads through forests and ravines to a breathtaking waterfall—perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Start early to avoid crowds and bring water and a camera. The park also offers guided eco-tours for deeper insight into local flora and fauna.

Must-try dishes include Pissaladière (onion tart with anchovies and goat cheese), and desserts made with Ardèche honey. Dine at Le Jardin des Saveurs, a Michelin-recommended bistro serving seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine using ingredients from nearby organic farms. Pair your meal with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine—a rich, full-bodied red that complements the region’s hearty flavors. This culinary journey captures the essence of Provence in every bite.

For couples, La Maison des Étoiles is a dreamy choice—an elegant boutique guesthouse housed in a restored 18th-century farmhouse. Rooms feature private hot tubs and starlit skylights, perfect for stargazing. The hotel arranges custom candlelit dinners on a hilltop terrace with valley views. Early morning, enjoy a shared truffle hunt in the forest, creating unforgettable memories in a serene, intimate setting.

While Valréas is a remote village, public transport is reasonably accessible. Regular buses connect to Avignon and Lyon, with journeys taking about 1.5 hours. There’s no metro, but bike rentals and electric scooters are available for exploring the town and nearby areas. For maximum flexibility, renting a car is recommended—just 45 minutes from Avignon via scenic country roads, ideal for weekend getaways.

Winter in Valréas offers a magical experience. Ski lifts lead to the Monts d’Ardèche ski area, suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. The town hosts the Winter Light Festival, illuminating pathways with handmade lanterns and creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Enjoy warm drinks at cozy mountain huts, listen to folk music, and embrace the rustic charm of southern French winter—peaceful, enchanting, and uniquely beautiful.

Top photo locations in Valréas include the bell tower of Notre-Dame Church for panoramic town views; the Pont Vieux bridge with its intricate stonework framing the Ardèche River; and the ancient olive tree at the village entrance, whose wide canopy creates dramatic shadows. Golden hour is ideal—late afternoon light bathes the terracotta rooftops in warmth, perfect for capturing the timeless beauty of this picturesque Provençal village.