Historic site and monument in Saint-Laurent-sous-Coiron, Ardèche

It is the highest village in this area-from here you have a real birds eye view. At one time a fortified wall surrounded it, today just a few architectural elements remain including the ruins of its castle. Labeled "Village of character" since 2020.

Remains of a squared structure believed to date the end of the 12th century and for sure the 13th have been excavated. The buildings' construction reached at least two floors on a basalt foundation.

The old village entrance was found through an opening in one of the ramparts. The stone columns and door hanger facing south was most likely used as for pedestrian access.

Its other architectural delights and beauty can be found in the village's natural landscape which is why the area offers many outdoor activities including: rock climbing (it is the site of the department's rock climbing center and school); speleology, due its famous underground network, one of the deepest in the region; its many hiking trails and equestrian centers.

Villages and Cities of Character is an official label, issued by the Departmental Tourism Committee, with the aim of networking in its department all the municipalities with a remarkable architectural and landscape heritage with the aim of developing tourism.