Site House
Gerbier de Jonc, a house at the source of the Loire
The opening of the site in July 2017 follows two and a half years of redevelopment work on the site, carried out by the Ardèche Department as part of the policy in favor of Sensitive Natural Spaces (ENS) in the Ardèche region.
The visitor centre is a place for welcoming, informing and discovering, at the heart of an iconic natural site. It allows visitors to better understand the landscape, geological and cultural riches of the area, while preparing their visit to Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc and the sources of the Loire.
You will be able to admire "1 km," a work by Olivier Leroi that celebrates the Loire and its course. This artistic installation, integrated into the project "The Division of the Waters", highlights the beauty and diversity of this territory.
The work was commissioned from the artist by the Department as part of its policy in favor of contemporary art in its public buildings.
The Visitor Centre invites you to delve into the fascinating history of the Earth through a new exhibition of 13 kakemonos dedicated to the geology of the Ardèche Mountains . This illustrated journey unveils the mysteries of the subsoil: discover why our rocks are black, how volcanoes shaped the current landscape, and learn more about the dinosaurs that left their mark on our region.
A true showcase of the Ardèche mountains and the department, the site also features a shop area offering local produce, crafts, and regional books. For outdoor enthusiasts, our advisors are available to help you plan your ascent of Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc or guide you along the Loire River's source trail.
Bourlatier Farm
Bourlatier, witness to the architecture of a territory
On the eastern foothills of the Massif Central, in an area with a harsh climate, at an altitude of 1.380 meters, this old XNUMXth century farmrd century, planted like a fortress in the heart of a windswept plateau, is now an unmissable site located 3 kilometers from Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc.
You will admire its typical architecture, its 900 m2 phonolite slate roof (local volcanic slabs), its frame in the shape of an upturned vessel, its impressive volumes (50 meters long and 10 meters wide).
From this old farmhouse typical of the Ardèche Mountains, experience the history of the region and discover the richness of the surrounding nature through activities accessible to all.
To learn all the secrets of Bourlatier, feel free to follow one of our self-guided tours or with the accompaniment of a guide.
Practical information on:
A natural site
Welcome to the Sensitive Natural Area of Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc and Mézenc: a little piece of the Alps in Ardèche.
In this area, the cradle of France's longest river, the Loire, the environment boasts flora and fauna typical of high mountains. Volcanic and over seven million years old, these mountains are home to the Clubmoss, a type of small fern that has emerged from the mists of time, and the Alpine Marmot. A magnificent landscape of volcanic peaks, plateaus, and majestic cirques, recognized as a protected site in France and as part of the Monts d'Ardèche UNESCO Global Geopark. Dominating the landscape from its 1.551-meter summit, Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc is surrounded by domes, mountain lakes, wild moors, marshes, peat bogs, and ancient forests. Climbing it promises a journey of profound emotions, breathtaking views, and a truly stunning panorama. As for biodiversity, it is exceptional. Preciously preserved and enhanced as part of the Ardèche Sensitive Natural Areas and the Natura 2000 European network.
Practical information on:
In the Ardèche Mountains, you will also find the Tanargue and Borne Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) as well as the "Coucouron Peat Bogs and Otter Streams" Sensitive Natural Area (ENS) , managed by the Ardèche Mountains Community of Municipalities
