Chemin de Fer du Vivarais
Experience a nostalgic train journey with the Chemin de Fer du Vivarais! Discover the stunning Gorges du Doux aboard an authentic steam train. A unique outing for the whole family, located close to Camping Arleblanc.
Nostalgia on the rails through a spectacular gorge
Experience the Ardèche in an extraordinary and relaxed way aboard the “Chemin de Fer du Vivarais”. This authentic steam train—affectionately known as “Le Train de l’Ardèche”—takes you on an atmospheric journey through the pristine Gorges du Doux. It makes for a delightful day out for the whole family, where the rhythmic hissing of the locomotive and the scent of a coal fire instantly transport you to a bygone era.
A nineteenth-century masterpiece
Dating back to the late nineteenth century, the railway winds along a historic narrow-gauge track that was carved into the rock by hand. As soon as you take your seat in the lovingly restored wooden carriages or open-air panoramic wagons, a journey of wonder begins. The train chugs along at a leisurely pace, passing by both gentle and turbulent stretches of the river, plunging into dark tunnels, and crossing stately stone viaducts that tower high above the water.
Discovering hidden natural landscapes
The Doux Valley is largely inaccessible to road traffic, making the steam train the only way to traverse this protected natural area at such close quarters. From your window, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of sheer granite cliffs, dense chestnut forests, and wild river rapids. Without any physical exertion, you get a front-row seat to one of the most rugged and verdant landscapes in this northern “département”.
A variety of themed trips and packages
The Chemin de Fer du Vivarais offers a range of options, allowing you to tailor your journey exactly as you wish. Choose a classic round trip, such as the popular “Mastrou” journey to the charming market town of Lamastre, or enjoy the shorter “Train des Gorges” steam-train excursion. Throughout the season, special trips are also organized, including atmospheric wine and local gastronomy tours, as well as festive, family-oriented event trains.
Explore the area around the departure station
A steam-train journey pairs perfectly with other attractions in the northern Rhône Valley. Before or after your trip, visit the historic town of Tournon-sur-Rhône—home to an impressive castle museum and offering views over the terraced vineyards of Tain-l’Hermitage—walk across the famous suspension bridge built by Marc Seguin, or simply relax on a terrace along the banks of the Rhône.
Practical information
The steam train departs from a dedicated station in Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, near Tournon-sur-Rhône, making for a wonderful day trip through the hilly countryside if you are staying at Camping Arleblanc. Trains run from April through November according to a set seasonal timetable. As this historic journey is very popular, we recommend booking in advance. Please feel free to ask at the campsite reception for current departure times, available packages, and the best route to the station.
Train de l’Ardèche, SNC Chemin de Fer du Vivarais, 111, Route du Grand Pont, 07300 Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, Tel: +33 (0)4 75 06 07 00, Email: contact@trainardeche.fr. Click for more information.
