The place
Originally agricultural land, the site gradually became a green campsite and, in 2016, a genuine 3-star campsite—while preserving its natural character.
Across one hectare, five terraced levels define the different areas and pitches, from the reception to the garden and small woodland.
Here, plants, wood and stone shape the setting. Over time, we have created distinctive facilities chosen for their quality, durability and harmonious integration into the landscape.
Many of these facilities were designed and built on site using local wood and recycled or repurposed materials. From the terraces and timber cladding to the stone bench and the hook for your towel, every detail has been carefully considered.
Just 3 km from Les Vans, at the entrance to Gravières, the campsite extends over one hectare beneath the slopes of the Serre de Barre, a prominent summit in the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Natural Park.
It is an ideal starting point for varied hikes through Mediterranean scrubland and mountain scenery. Close to the river and protected natural sites, La Châtaigneraie is the perfect base from which to discover this beautiful region.
An independent campsite, with no affiliation to a chain or group, La Châtaigneraie allows me to make my own choices about its development and atmosphere. I run it with a small, dedicated team.
The river
Or rather, the rivers! The Chassezac is accessible on foot or by bike from the campsite along a quiet path. It offers beautiful natural swimming areas bordered by flat rocks before flowing into the limestone gorges south of Les Vans. You can also explore the river by canoe.
Further upstream, in the foothills of the Cévennes, the wild tributaries of the Thines, Borne and Roujanel delight explorers and anglers.
Whether well known or more secluded, there is a favourite spot for everyone—swimming, outdoor activities or simply relaxing by the water.
The reception
Open from 8:00 am to 9:30 pm
After the kilometres, unexpected GPS directions, winding roads and beautiful scenery, you have made the right choice! Reception is your first point of contact when you arrive.
Once you are settled in, come back whenever you need information, local guides or personalised advice for your stay.
We can book canoe trips on the Chassezac or Ardèche rivers, as well as guided canyoning, caving and climbing activities with our partners. You can also arrange a yoga session or a relaxing massage during your stay.
This small, welcoming space also offers a fine selection of books, comics for children and teenagers, and games for you to enjoy.
The grocery store, café, little bar and brasero
Next to reception, this welcoming area opens onto a beautiful shaded terrace with benches, tables, armchairs and a hammock. Free Wi-Fi is available here.
Enjoy a quiet coffee each morning and collect the bread and pastries you ordered the day before, or a prepared breakfast basket. Guests of all ages enjoy this morning ritual!
You will find a selection of regional and organic products, sourced locally whenever possible: organic fruit juices, beers and wines, vegetable spreads and charcuterie for your picnics, exceptional honey from Le Berger des Abeilles, and chestnut cream made on site with our own chestnuts. Organic vegetables from the neighbouring farm are also available to order, along with delicious Terre Adélice ice cream.
Once or twice a week, we light the large brasero for an evening around the fire. Bring and cook your own food, then share a friendly moment on the bar terrace. These gatherings are shaped by conversation, occasional music and the gentle atmosphere of summer evenings.
Playgrounds and discovery areas
The children’s play area extends into the small woodland—a natural space for exploring, imagining, meeting friends and building dens.
An organic garden is cultivated in rhythm with the seasons. Children can help look after it and take part in occasional harvesting during their stay.
A table-tennis table, a shaded pétanque court and a large area for ball games and badminton are also available.
The Inn, the restaurants
Right next to the campsite, our friendly neighbours at the Auberge de Gravières serve simple, carefully prepared country cuisine made with local produce.
Les Vans offers a wide range of restaurants and cuisines for every taste and budget, from casual snacks to Michelin-starred dining. We will be happy to recommend our favourite addresses.
Our labels
The Park Values
Located in the heart of the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Natural Park, the campsite has held the Valeurs Parc naturel régional label since 2019.
This demanding label recognises the quality of the welcome, strong local connections, promotion of regional products, integration into the landscape and commitment to protecting the environment.
We are proud ambassadors for our region and contribute whenever possible to local and regional studies and initiatives that support environmental protection. In 2021, the campsite was a pilot site for a study on preserving dark ecological corridors by adapting night-time lighting to protect biodiversity.
Home Bike
The Accueil Vélo label guarantees the following services on site:
- Electric mountain-bike rental
- A secure bike shelter with basic repair and cleaning equipment
- Ready-to-camp accommodation
- Breakfast and picnic baskets
- Advice and route maps for rides and walks at every level: www.ardeche-a-velo.com
With our Cyclo-couette offer, you can travel light and have your rental bike delivered to the campsite for your arrival.
You can book directly with our partner: amc7.com
Transportation
Les Vans can be reached on foot along local paths in around 40 minutes, or by bike using quiet roads.
Bikes can be rented on site, subject to availability, or booked in advance (see the Accueil Vélo section above).
The campsite has a Green’Up charging point for hybrid and electric vehicles.
If you arrive in Les Vans by bus, we can arrange a shuttle to La Châtaigneraie.
Your reviews
- « Very close to Les Vans, in Gravières, at the start of the walks and GR, on the banks of the river, you are welcomed in a superb way by Cécile and Jean Yves who know how to preserve this site’s charm and preserve authenticity without sacrificing comfort. . Great cleanliness and homemade organic products. A stone’s throw away… an inn offering splendid cuisine. WE LOVE !!! »
Frédéric - « In a magnificent setting, La Chataigneraie campsite brings you tranquility, calm but also conviviality. Cécile and Jean are great hosts, always available, they are always there for advice and tips. Brazier evenings are ideal for discovering specialties and talking with other campers. »
Pauline
