Arlebosc: Culture, River and Routes

The Doux runs through Arlebosc, and the Mastrou train and Vélorails cross the Viaduc du Banchet. Historic buildings in the village and several named cycling and hiking routes give your stay different points of focus. If you’re looking for a hotel in Arlebosc, you can take culture, river scenery and tours into account when planning your days.

Getting there and seasonal rides

The Mastrou train crosses the Viaduc du Banchet near Arlebosc. It operates seasonally, according to the timetable. The Vélorails also cross the viaduct; their operation depends on the season and reservations. Before your trip, check the Mastrou timetable and confirm dates and reservation arrangements for the Vélorails. This lets you plan these rides into your stay without assuming they operate year-round.

Compare cycling and hiking routes

For a cycling loop, you can choose between two routes of similar length, but with different difficulty ratings and elevation gains. Arlebosc par le Doux is a moderately difficult 24.0-kilometre loop with 608 metres of elevation gain. It starts at the town hall square. The paved circular route runs from the banks of the Doux to the Col du Perrier; there is a viewpoint before the descent into the Doux valley.

Le Banchet is rated as a difficult mountain biking loop. The route is 24.1 kilometres long, has 923 metres of elevation gain, and starts and ends in the market square. Although the routes are almost the same length, their stated elevation gains differ considerably. Le Banchet passes through chestnut groves and crosses the Doux at a ford, offering a refreshing break. Trail conditions can change seasonally; check the water level before using the ford.

The Circuit des châteaux also offers a longer hiking option: the 11.7-kilometre route is listed as having 420 metres of elevation gain and taking four hours and 30 minutes. It starts in the market square and initially follows yellow-and-white trail markers. Along the way, it connects the banks of the Doux, fruit-growing areas and the forests of Bois Madame. The route length, estimated time and elevation gain help distinguish this hike from the two cycling loops.

Châteaux and village history

The Château de Chazotte was built at the beginning of the 17th century, replacing a manor house dating from the 14th century. Its design follows the principles of Renaissance architecture. In 1981, its façades, roofs, entrance gate and door were added to France’s supplementary inventory of historic monuments. In the centre of the village there is also a feudal castle, which was probably built in the 14th century.

The village church was built in 1845 in the Neo-Romanesque style. Its described features include round arches and a square bell tower. In 1890, it was decorated with frescoes and stained-glass windows by glass artist Koch, on the theme of the Eucharist; some damaged frescoes were later removed. This makes it possible to distinguish the church’s construction date and style from its later decorative history.

The church and Museum of Sacred Art

The Museum of Sacred Art is housed in the private chapel of the de Chazotte family, which opens onto the church choir. On display are liturgical vestments and other religious objects. According to the visitor information, admission to the church and museum is free; the church is listed as open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. year-round. Check the visitor information locally before planning your visit. The interpretive trail at Château de Chazotte is listed as open year-round, with information available at Arlebosc town hall; check there for local arrangements before setting out.

History activity and festival date

Les archives cachées d'Arlebosc is a history-themed activity with 21 cards for three routes: one walking route and two routes by car or electric bike. The game box is available from the tourist offices in Tournon-sur-Rhône, Tain-l'Hermitage, Saint-Félicien and Saint-Donat-sur-l'Herbasse. Missing cards can be requested from the post office or Arlebosc town hall. Check local distribution arrangements before travelling.

La Reboule takes place on the last Sunday in August; the date may differ in exceptional years. If you’re travelling to Arlebosc specifically for the festival, check the date in advance.

Discover more destinations: Planzolles, Nozières, Thueyts, Saint-André-En-Vivarais, Meyras, Vesseaux, Saint-Alban-Auriolles, Saint-Cirgues-De-Prades.

For the broader travel overview: Ardèche.