Discover Chandolas: Stone Architecture, Art Brut and Routes

Discover Chandolas through three distinct themes: the stone architecture of the old village centre, the art of Alphonse Gurlhie, and routes for walking, cycling or horse riding. The old village centre and the hamlets of Maisonneuve and Les Martins feature harmonious stone buildings. Enclosed gardens and courtyards are part of the scene, along with fountains, cisterns, arcades and vaulted passageways. The village’s character is shaped not only by individual buildings, but also by its courtyards and passages.

Stone Buildings and Historic Sites

Behind the former post office stands the Saint Blaise Chapel, a surviving remnant of an 11th-century church. In Maisonneuve, the church of Saint-Laurent d’Avenas dates from 1850. The two sites therefore reflect different historical periods: Saint Blaise retains its connection to an older church, while Saint-Laurent d’Avenas dates from the 19th century.

The Pont de Maisonneuve is also part of the village’s history. Inaugurated in 1766, it replaced a ferry on the road from Alès to Le Puy. The bridge is therefore not only a structure with a precise inauguration date, but is also linked to an earlier change in how this route was crossed.

Alphonse Gurlhie and Art Brut

Alphonse Gurlhie was born in Chandolas. The waymarked circular trail “Itinéraire autour d’Alphonse Gurlhie” starts in Chandolas, is 4.7 kilometres long and focuses on his Art Brut works. Another link to the subject is the Jardin d’Art brut – Alphonse Gurlhie, which features four animal statues. It is located in the hamlet of Maisonneuve, in front of the multipurpose hall and the Pépit’art horticultural centre. In this way, the biographical connection, a themed circular trail and the animal figures on display come together, while each offers a distinct experience.

Routes and Landscape

For route planning, you can compare specific details for a walking trail and a cycling loop. The waymarked circular trail “Itinéraire autour d’Alphonse Gurlhie” is 4.7 kilometres long. The “Dolmens: Belvédère de Bourbouillet” cycling loop covers 15.6 kilometres, starts at the entrance to Chandolas and is rated moderate. Check the latest route details before setting out.

A distinctive landscape feature is the Bourbouillet viewpoint: three dolmens stand on the edge of a gorge, and the viewpoint overlooks the Fontgraze stream. The “Parcours des 7 Clochers” cycling loop passes through Chandolas and across a plain of vineyards and limestone landscapes. The walls of Chandolas have also shaped the Gras landscape. These features range from ancient stone structures to vineyards and limestone landscapes, but the routes do not necessarily share the same views or paths.

Horse Riding and Cuisine

The Centre équestre des Combes offers horse rides, hikes, lessons for beginners and advanced riders, as well as pony discovery rides. On rides with the centre, you can reach the banks of the Chassezac in two hours. The operator’s tour details may change; if interested, check the current options in advance. For a meal, Auberge Les Murets serves homemade seasonal cuisine and menus featuring local flavours. This restaurant’s offering may also change.

Discover more destinations: Alboussière, Aubenas, Saint-Étienne-de-Fontbellon, Désaignes, Saint-Prix, Asperjoc, Le Teil, Lachapelle Sous Aubenas.

Return to the main travel overview: Ardèche.