Ardeche Rambles with a Donkey, Self-Guided Trail

39 miles with 6¼ - 10½  miles and approx. 1,000 feet of ascent per day (1,500 feet on one day)

Day 1: Arrive at Alboussiere - Arrive at your first evening’s accommodation. Enjoy dinner with your hosts before spending the night in this charming location.

Day 2: Boffres to Alboussiere - This first walk gives a good introduction to walking with your donkey. The route winds through the countryside from the attractive medieval village of Boffres, following small tracks and quiet country lanes. 6¼ miles, 10km.

Day 3: Alboussiere to St Colombier le Jeune - Amble through small hamlets hugging the hills, and up onto the plateau Ardechois. This route gives you a true taste of the history of the area. 10½ miles, 16.8km.

Day 4: St-Barthelemy-le Plain circular - A pleasant walk amidst rolling farmland and fruit orchards, with the opportunity to visit some of the villages en route. There’s an excellent swimming spot too, shaded by trees and framed by the ancient Moulin and its 12^th century bridge. 7 miles, 11½ km.

Day 5: St Colombier le Jeune to Saint Romain de Lerps - This route curves along the mountains to explore broad plateau and beautiful panoramas. Far-reaching views over the famous vineyards of the Rhone Valley, and the river meandering below. 9 miles, 14.5km.

Day 6: Saint Romain de Lerps to Boffres - Meander back through the agricultural lands of the Ardeche; pastures, grazing lands, fields of fruit trees, and forests of chestnuts. Your walk ends where you began, the charming medieval village of Boffres. Bid farewell to your friendly four-legged companion, before transferring back to Saint Romain de Lerps for your final night’s accommodation. 10½ miles, 17km.

Day 7: Departure after breakfast.