Saint-Martial, Ardèche

Opening : All year round daily.

Subject to favorable weather.

Mount Gerbier-de-Jonc, a former volcano with a sugarloaf-shaped summit, is famous as the source of the Loire River. This unique natural site offers breathtaking panoramic views in the heart of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

Geo side :
Majestic and instantly recognizable, Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc rises to 1,551 meters at the heart of the Ardèche highlands. This phonolitic volcanic dome, with its distinctive sugarloaf-shaped summit, is a true symbol of the Montagne d’Ardèche – both for its striking silhouette and its natural and cultural significance.
This is where the Loire, the longest river in France, begins its journey. Three main springs emerge at the base of the mount, including the famous "geographic source", which can be reached via a marked walking trail. From the summit (about 30 minute climb), visitors are rewarded with a spectacular 360° view of the Alps, Cévennes, Velay region, and the volcanic landscape of the Massif Central.
Classified as a protected site since 1933, Mont Gerbier-de-Jonc lies at the heart of the UNESCO Global Geopark of the Monts d’Ardèche. At its base, the Maison de Site (Visitor Centre) offers exhibitions on volcanism, local heritage, and the birth of the Loire. In summer, the area comes alive with visitors drawn by its fresh air, preserved landscapes, and the fascinating story of this iconic stone giant.
A must-see destination, where nature, geology, and poetry meet.

Hiking side :
The climb to the summit, via a well-marked trail, takes about 30 minutes and rewards hikers with a breathtaking 360° panorama, stretching across the Alps, Cévennes, and the volcanic plateaus of the region. At the foot of the mountain, several hiking trails invite you to discover the site's rich natural and cultural heritage :
- The "Sources of the Loire" trail – a one-hour loop ideal for observing the different spring sources of the Loire River.
- The "Mire de la Ferme de Flotte" (sight of the Flotte farm), part of the Partage des Eaux art trail, highlights the watershed phenomenon through a striking land art installation, and offers a superb scenic viewpoint (30 min round trip).
These accessible walks offer a total immersion into a wild, peaceful, and history-filled landscape.