Barnas: Hiking, Ardèche and History

Barnas offers a range of reasons to visit: hiking trails, nature along the Ardèche and local history shape the area. An easy botanical loop, a trail to Rocher d'Abraham and group hikes provide different options for planning your day.

Hiking trails and group walks

The Barnas et son sentier botanique loop is rated easy, is 5.5 kilometres long and takes approximately two hours. The Sentier botanique de Barnas is a circular hike: it starts at Place St Théophrède, passes through the Lafarre valley and returns via the hamlet of Bouix. Information panels along the way describe the local plants and trees. Check trail conditions locally before setting out.

Another trail also starts at Place St Théophrède and provides access to the 1,498-metre-high Rocher d'Abraham. It passes above the hamlet of Lamothe. This section of the trail is also part of the 51-kilometre-long Trail de la Chaussée des Géants.

Ça marche à Barnas organises weekly group hikes in the surrounding area on Wednesdays. The schedule may vary, so check it again before taking part.

The different planning details can help you choose a route: the botanical loop has an approximate duration and information about plants and trees, while the destination and route above Lamothe provide orientation for the trail to Rocher d'Abraham. The group hikes are another option if Wednesday fits your travel plans.

The Ardèche and produce from the valley

The Ardèche offers opportunities for swimming and trout fishing in Barnas. Swimming may not be supervised; take this into account when planning your day.

Ferme du Bardy sells chestnuts, sheep, lambs and ewe lambs directly from the farm in the Lafarre valley in Barnas. Orders are required for direct sales. If you would like to shop there, plan your order in advance.

Local history and places to visit

The present-day Église de Barnas dates from the 19th century and is open every day throughout the year. Check the opening arrangements locally again before planning your visit. The Tour de Chadenac is different: formerly a watch post and seigneurial outpost above the Ardèche valley, it overlooks the Sigadou and is privately owned. The tower is not open to visitors.

The history of the village of St Théofrède-de-Bruc also dates back to the 8th century. The Les Barnassous association brings together people connected to Barnas at social events, such as concerts, exhibitions and chestnut roasting. Check the dates of individual events before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Ribes, St Pierre De Colombier, Arlebosc, Accons, Rocher, Saint-Étienne-de-Fontbellon, Rochecolombe, Saint-Clair

For the regional travel overview: Ardèche.