The Ray-Pic waterfalls and the volcanic heritage

The Ray Pic waterfall, invigorating and volcanic

Deep in the heart of the Monts d’Ardeche Regional Nature Park, the Ray Pic waterfall is a cool, refreshing spot from every angle. Look down on it first from the viewpoint beside the road, then leave your vehicle in the car park a little further on and follow the footpath to the cascade. Information panels along the way explain the origins of this spectacular geosite. But even though the pure water can look inviting, especially in high summer, bathing is strictly forbidden for safety reasons.

A cascade to enjoy from every angle

Man observing the Ray-Pic waterfall in winter — Ray-Pic Waterfall, © ©A.Renaud-Goud-ADT07

A volcanic site

The falls were classified as a natural volcanic site in 1931. Water from the river Bourges drops over basalt columns 60m high.

©M.Rissoan-ADT07

Did you know?

The Ray Pic volcano was originally one of the longest lava flows in France stretching for 20km.

Discovering Ray Pic

Thanks to a number of belvederes, you can enjoy various views over Ray Pic. Although the official footpath is accessible to most visitors, you do need appropriate footwear to walk through the undergrowth and should also be able to negotiate stairs.

Trail leading to the Ray-Pic waterfall, © ©A.Renaud-Goud-ADT07

Group looking at the Ray-Pic Waterfall — Trail leading to the Ray-Pic waterfall, © ©A.Renaud-Goud-ADT07

A stunning spectacle

You will need around half an hour to walk down to the last viewpoint and see the water tumbling over the basalt ‘organ pipes’.

A waterfall in the Regional Nature Park of the Monts d’Ardeche

The Park was created in 2001 with the aim of promoting local heritage and resources, and improving both local attractions and the quality of life for residents, whilst all the time respecting the natural environment.

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Activities around the Ray Pic

Spéléologie Demi-J Famille Grotte Jeunes avec GEO

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Saint-Étienne-de-Fontbellon

Spéléologie Demi-J Famille Grotte Jeunes avec GEO

Escalade Famille dès 5 ans avec Kayacorde

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Aubenas

Escalade Famille dès 5 ans avec Kayacorde

Pause Cocoon & Bien-être – Maud Moal

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Vals-les-Bains

Canyoning Half-D Discovery Aero Besorgues with GEO

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Labastide sur Besorgues

Canyoning Half-D Discovery Aero Besorgues with GEO, © GEO ardeche canyon

Canyoning Demi-J Famille Basse Besorgues avec GEO

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Labastide sur Besorgues

Canyoning Demi-J Famille Basse Besorgues avec GEO

Canyoning Demi-J Gourgas avec GEO

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Aubenas

Canyoning Journée Haute Borne intégrale avec GEO

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Aubenas

Canyoning Journée Haute Borne intégrale avec GEO

Via Ferrata Half-Day Discovery Pont du Diable with GEO

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Aubenas

Via Ferrata Half-Day Discovery Pont du Diable with GEO

Canyoning Demi-J Découverte Haute Besorgues avec GEO

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Labastide sur Besorgues

Canyoning Demi-J Découverte Haute Besorgues avec GEO

Via Ferrata du Pont du Diable with Kayacorde

Sporting activities

Bookable online

Thueyts

Via Ferrata du Pont du Diable with Kayacorde

Baptême d’apiculture, une visite au cœur du rucher

Cultural activities

Bookable online

Closed. Open thursday to 10:00 am

Vals-les-Bains

Baptême d’apiculture, une visite au cœur du rucher

Une matinée à la ferme: Prendre soin des brebis et des cochons

Cultural activities

Bookable online

Saint-Joseph-des-Bancs