Pont de Labeaume
With at its core an impressive basaltic flow, Pont de Labeaume is a peaceful village, bordered by the river that holds many natural and cultural wonders to discover!
Located at the foot of Ventadour Castle, at the confluence of the three valleys of Lignon, Fontaulière, and Ardèche, Pont de Labeaume invites you to a discovery of the great outdoors.
What awaits you…
The church of Nieigles
The church of Notre Dame de Nieigles, or “Niègles,” is a Romanesque church classified as a historical monument since 1975. It is said that its name is derived from the Latin “Nidus aquilinus,” meaning “eagle’s nest,” and over time, it was contracted to “nieigles.” Notre Dame has undergone many modifications but still retains its Romanesque charm with its keystone, pillars, and all parts highlighted by a molded cornice. It was only in the 17th century that a sacristy and a bell tower were added. Long on a pilgrimage route to observe its famous “Black Virgin,” this solid wood statue with gilding is now displayed in the main church of the village.
The river on the horizon
There is no shortage of viewpoints on the river in Pont de Labeaume! The commune is at the perfect intersection of three rivers and their valleys: Fontaulière, Ardèche, and Lignon. In addition to swimming, you can enjoy a unique and peaceful setting to try trout fishing on a “no-kill” stretch. Along this river, in front of Ventadour Castle, you can also observe magnificent basaltic flows that are actually the superposition of lava flows from the Ray-Pic/Coupe de la Fialouse volcanoes (in Péreyres) and Souilhol (in Meyras).
Dive into the freshness
Take advantage of the beautiful weather to discover the intercommunal swimming pool in Pont de Labeaume! Perfect for refreshing both young and old seeking a swim. Additionally, in the municipality, 600m above the town hall, you’ll find a sports area: a basketball court, skate park, and children’s playground with a view of Ventadour Castle.
For history enthusiasts…
History of a crossing
Initially known as the village of “La Baume” in the municipality of Nieigles, it took its final name once the construction of its bridge over the Ardèche River was completed. A little tip for new visitors: be careful not to confuse the village of Labeaume in southern Ardèche, which includes a bridge, with our village of Pont de Labeaume! It is also said that its name refers to a mysterious cave in the basaltic cliff, derived from Old French “balma.”
On the right track
Did you know? In the village of Pont de Labeaume, a milestone is still visible in the square of its current town hall. This milestone, classified as a historical monument, was found a few steps away from the square in 1890. It is a historical artifact that highlights the significance of Roman influence in the surrounding areas, such as the so-called “Roman” bridge in the Réjus neighborhood on departmental road D5, spanning the Lignon River.
Heritage at the heart
Keep an eye out! Within the alleyways of Pont de Labeaume, nestled in the lintels of doors, there is a characteristic sign! Hearts carved in stone that, according to some, indicated at the time the religious affiliation of the owner: hearts upright for Catholics and inverted hearts for Protestants. Moreover, many lintels also indicate former shops: weavers, blacksmiths, and other artisans…
