Le Train de l'Ardèche
Auvergne-RhĂ´ne-Alpes
Le Train de l'Ardèche, also known as the Chemin de fer du Vivarais, is a heritage tourist railway in the Ardèche region of southern France. The metre gauge line stretches 33 kilometres, running between Tournon in the Rhône Valley and Lamastre in the Doux valley. Renowned for its historic Mallet articulated steam locomotives and a collection of vintage rolling stock, the railway offers a unique journey through picturesque landscapes, including the narrow Gorges du Doux. Originally opened in 1891, the railway was closed in 1968 but revived as a heritage line in 1970 through the efforts of enthusiasts. After a temporary suspension in 2008 due to maintenance challenges, steam services resumed in 2013, allowing visitors to relive the charm of early 20th-century rail travel. The line’s slow pace of 25 km/h lets passengers fully appreciate the natural beauty and engineering heritage. With 27 classified vehicles and a track clinging to cliff faces, the train provides an immersive experience combining history, nature, and traditional railway operation.
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Consiglio: The best time to visit is during July and August when daily steam services operate, with additional weekend services in September and October. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the official website to secure your journey. Visitors can also enjoy various seasonal events and special excursions. Note that the steam locomotive service runs mainly between Tournon Saint-Jean and Boucieu-le-Roi, with some longer trips to Lamastre on select days. Booking ahead is advised as this popular heritage railway attracts many visitors. Comfortable clothing and a camera are recommended to capture the scenic views along the Doux valley and gorges.
Fatti interessanti
- •The Chemin de fer du Vivarais is popularly known as 'Le Mastrou' or 'Train de l'Ardèche'.
- •The railway operates historic Mallet articulated steam locomotives, including no.403 built in 1903, which is a protected Monument Historique.
- •The line runs at a leisurely speed of about 25 km/h to allow passengers to enjoy the dramatic scenery of the Doux valley and its gorges.
- •After closure in 1968, dedicated volunteers restored the railway, reopening it as a tourist line in 1970.
- •The railway owns both the infrastructure and rolling stock, a rarity among French heritage railways.
- •A Vélorail service (pedal-powered rail cars) was introduced in 2011 to complement the steam train experience.
Storia
The Chemin de fer du Vivarais was originally opened on 12 July 1891, serving the Ardèche region with a metre gauge network.
It closed on 31 October 1968 but was quickly revived by railway enthusiasts as a tourist line in 1969.
The official reopening of the Tournon to Lamastre line occurred in 1970.
Ownership of infrastructure and rolling stock was secured by the operating company in 1973.
Financial difficulties led to a suspension of steam services in 2008, but restoration efforts culminated in the return of steam locomotives in 2013, preserving the railway’s historic legacy.
Since then, it has continued to operate as a celebrated heritage railway, maintaining a collection of historic locomotives and cars.
Guida del luogo
Historic Steam Locomotives1903
The railway boasts a collection of authentic steam locomotives, notably the Mallet 030-030 no.403 built in 1903, which has Monument Historique status. These engines are carefully maintained and provide the iconic steam-powered experience on the line.
Route Through the Gorges du Doux
The train route winds along the steep cliffs of the Doux valley, offering breathtaking views of the rugged gorges and natural landscapes. The track clings to the cliffs, making the journey a spectacular scenic experience.
Tournon Saint-Jean Station2012
The current northern terminus of the line, built after restrictions prevented access to the original Tournon station. It serves as the main departure point for steam train journeys.
Rolling Stock Collection
The railway maintains 27 classified vehicles including historic passenger cars and diesel railcars, showcasing the evolution of regional railway travel.
Contatto
Telefono: 04 75 06 07 00
