La Souche
La Souche nestles in the Cévennes Ardéchoises, at the foot of the Tanargue massif, an ideal escape for horizon lovers.
The village proudly stands in the valley at 575 meters, and its highest point (Le Rocher d’Abraham) marvels at 1498 meters above sea level, enchanting all those eager for discovery and contemplation.
What awaits you…
The Tanargue Massif
The village of La Souche borders the upper part of the impressive Tanargue Massif! An idyllic setting for hikers and lovers of wide-open spaces, this exploration destination is divided between three valleys: Le Lignon, La Beaume, and La Borne. Its magnificent peak, Mont Aigu, overlooks the municipality, providing hikers with an unparalleled 360° panorama.
Swimming in nature
For all vacationers or locals dreaming of spending their summer with their feet in the water, in a natural setting, the La Souche water plan is a prime location! It’s also an opportunity to experience the gentle waters of the Lignon River, away from the crowds of the French Riviera. On-site: a playground, picnic tables, pets allowed, and guaranteed good times!
Cycling in Ardèche
The Ardéchoise is the must-attend cycling event in Ardèche! Cyclists or spectators, curious individuals, or volunteers, every year thousands of people come together to celebrate sports in Ardèche.
First, on the heights of our mountains but also on our ridges, on the hillsides, or in our picturesque villages like Jaujac or Meyras, cycling enthusiasts never tire of our landscapes… and we understand why!
For history enthusiasts…
You shall not pay
In the village of La Souche, there is a rather curious legend… the path of the indebted! It is said that the former buyers who tended to delay their payments would take this winding path on the outskirts of the village to avoid settling their debts. This path will also allow you to bypass the village directly from its chapel… but no worries! Nowadays, there is no need to bring out the bills to enjoy the walk, but we admit that the anecdote is amusing!
At the roots of the place
Two stories coexist about the origin of the name of the village of La Souche! One version suggests that in medieval times, numerous charcoal kilns were made from the stumps that dotted the village, and the wood exploitation for charcoal was said to come directly from “la souche.” Later, the name of the place evolved over time, changing from “Zocha” in 1173 to “La Souche” in 1801, a name that would eventually be adopted for the entire upper Lignon valley. However, others assert that its name comes from the Occitan term “Sotcha,” which in Cevennes dialect refers to the vine… you can choose your version!
