What To Do

Ready to get out of the Mas? Mas Pinède et Pierre is the ideal base for exploring all the fabulous activities Southern France has to offer. From gourmands to nature lovers to history nuts, there’s something wonderful for any and all travelers. Re-source in glorious natural surroundings, biking, hiking or kayaking the forests and gorges. Connect to history in prehistoric caves, Roman cities, medieval villages, and elegant chateaux. Taste your way through organic vineyards, local markets, and farms. Immerse yourself in the joie de vivre of sunny Southern France.

Saint Julien de Peyrolas

Want to keep it local? Visit our charming boulangerie and Chez Dame Tartine—an artisan jam maker of repute. Restaurant 3007 is a down home spot for lunch, coffee, or an “apero” and serves pizza at night.

Stop by Le Gairidel (the local wine cooperative) or Domaine Le Chapelier (organic vineyard) for a tasting. Enjoy a hike on marked trails passing by MPP and leading into protected forest. Peruse our quaint summer market with produce from “Les Paniers de MAX” or visit Max’s farm stand Wednesday mornings at their own farm. For thrill seekers, Accroche Aventure is not to be missed.

In our neighboring towns, you can visit an organic goat cheese farm, a duck farm (foie gras!), a herborist/soap maker, a donkey herd…and of course, even more vineyards!

Beaches of Saint Martin d'Ardèche

A 12-minute drive, take the one lane bridge across the Ardèche into Saint Martin. We’ll clue you in to our secret parking spots to explore the little beaches dotting the riverside. On the main beach, rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and paddle boats.

Villages & Towns

Can’t get enough of those stone lined streets, churches, cafés and quaint shops? In 20 minutes or less find yourself in Montclus or La Roque-sur-Cèze, two more “Plus Beaux Villages de France”. Other nearby favorites are Barjac, Goudargues, & Cornillon. Larger nearby towns of Pont Saint Esprit, Bourg Saint Andeol, Bagnol-sur-Ceze are still heavy on the charm – especially on market day – while offering more restaurants, shopping, museums, and concerts.

Caves & Grottoes

The region around MPP is bursting with breathtaking caves and grottoes. Explore these geological wonders with a mellow guided walking tour, or up the ante by opting to spelunk, rappel, or zip-line. Still not intrigued? In the Grotte Saint Marcel you can spelunk your way to a wine tasting alongside the cascade rim pools…or fly through the Grotte de la Salamandre strapped to a human sized dirigible!

Aiguèze

Just a 5 minute drive from MPP, Aiguèze is a medieval village perched on the cliffs overlooking the Ardèche River that will win your heart. Possessing the distinguished title of “Most Beautiful Villages of France” (Plus Beaux Villages de France), it is a magical spot to explore – dine under the shade of the platan trees, grab an ice cream cone, and take a stroll to soak in the magnificent panoramic view. Visit the boutiques selling antiques, local crafts, and regional food products. Thirsty? Two domaines offer wine tastings right in the heart of the village. Feeling hot? Take the path down to the riverside and dip in the Ardèche. Truly the perfect place to dive headfirst into your provencal vacation!

Gorges de l’Ardèche

Explore the National Nature Reserve of the Gorges of the Ardeche – a 1575 hectare natural sanctuary recognized as an ‘Exceptional Site’ by the French government. The gorges’ most iconic site is the Pont d’Arc – an epic natural stone arch spanning the river. For a low key visit, take the scenic route with its 11 viewpoints to picnic and swim under the Pont d’Arc. Or dive deep into the reserve, exploring 24 km of hiking trails, descending the river by kayak or canoe, and making your way to secluded beaches, caves, and dolmen. Contact us for help planning your adventure! Various destinations in the Gorges de l’Ardèche can be reached in 15 min – 1 hr drive from MPP.

Gorges de la Ceze

Canoe or kayak along the beautiful and peaceful Cèze river, including a 5 km trip perfect for beginners or those who need a brush up before a longer descent! Departures from charming Goudargues – nicknamed the “Venice of Gard.”