Attractions and Places To See around Nozières - Top 20

Nozières, situated at an altitude of 920 meters, offers magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding Ardèche landscape. You can see the distant Alps, Mont Mézenc, and the Boutières massif. The area is also rich with forests and rivers, providing a diverse natural setting for exploration.

Yes, Lake Devesset is a notable natural feature located on the Haut-Vivarais plateau at 1,074 meters above sea level. It's surrounded by fir trees and is recognized as a Natural Area of Ecological, Faunistic, and Floristic Interest. It's an ideal spot for picnicking, water activities, or exploring the numerous small paths around its perimeter.

Nozières boasts several historical points of interest. You can explore the ancient Ruins of Rochebloine Castle, which offer extensive panoramic views. The village also features a 17th-century church, adding to its rich historical and architectural heritage.

A unique cultural attraction is the Old Lamastre train station, which serves as the arrival point for the "Ardèche train" (Le Mastrou). This old steam locomotive offers a journey through the Gorges du Doux, providing a glimpse into the past. It's even possible to bring bicycles on the trip. Another distinctive site is the Miniature Village at Col du Buisson, crafted from granite by a retired stonemason.

The region offers excellent cycling opportunities. The Nonières Tunnel is part of the Dolce Via cycleway, providing a unique and refreshing experience for cyclists, especially on warm days. You can find various cycling routes, including those around Nozières for touring bicycles, road cycling, and mountain biking. For more details on routes, you can check the Cycling around Nozières guide.

Yes, the region around Nozières is rich with numerous marked hiking trails. Popular routes include the "Croix de Junique" hike (9km) and a 12km hike to the Château de Rochebloine. There's also a scenic Trail along the Sumène, offering a mix of shaded and sunny sections. These trails invite visitors to explore the natural beauty of the Ardèche.

Absolutely. The Old Lamastre train station, with its historic steam locomotive, is considered family-friendly. Additionally, the Miniature Village at Col du Buisson is a fascinating creation that can delight visitors of all ages. Many of the hiking and cycling trails, such as the Trail along the Sumène, are also suitable for families.

Given Nozières' elevation and the emphasis on outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, the warmer months from spring through early autumn (roughly May to October) are generally ideal. During this period, the weather is most favorable for exploring trails, enjoying lake activities at Lake Devesset, and experiencing the scenic views.

Visitors frequently highlight the unique experiences offered. For instance, the Nonières Tunnel is praised for being a refreshing and atmospheric ride on the Dolce Via. The Old Lamastre train station is loved for its nostalgic steam locomotive journeys. The panoramic views from elevated points like the Buisson Pass and the historical ruins are also highly appreciated.

When planning a visit to the Old Lamastre train station to experience the "Ardèche train" (Le Mastrou), it's advisable to book your tickets well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the summer months. This ensures you secure your spot on this popular steam locomotive journey through the Gorges du Doux.

Due to its elevated position, Nozières itself offers many scenic viewpoints. The Ruins of Rochebloine Castle provide magnificent panoramic views of the Ardèche landscape. Additionally, the Col du Buisson is known for its scenic location, and the Balcon du Doux in Nozières offers another dedicated spot to enjoy the local landscape.

Yes, the region caters to various fitness levels. For a leisurely experience, the Trail along the Sumène offers a pleasant walk along the river. For those seeking more challenging options, marked hiking trails like the 9km "Croix de Junique" or a 12km hike to the Château de Rochebloine provide more strenuous routes through the natural beauty of the Ardèche.