Balazuc
A Plus Beau Village above the Ardeche
The perched village of Balazuc standing on a cliff above the Ardêche River is one of the most beautiful in the region if not in all of France. It is in fact officially a Plus Beaux Village, full of character with its labyrinthine streets and stairways and topped off with a medieval castle and Romanesque church.
There has been a ford across the River here for thousands of years and it was originally a Gallic stronghold called Baladunum from the Gallic for ‘rock’ and ‘height’.
For the best views of the village, follow the Grand’Rue down across the old bridge over the river and choose your picture - you wont be disappointed. Late afternoon is the best time for photographs.