The GR4 and GR7 meet at Col du Bez. Alongside this clear connection to hiking, gorges, high-altitude moorlands and cultural heritage are among the features that make Borne an interesting place to visit. When planning your trip, you can start by choosing between a specific circular hike, varied landscapes and historic sites.

Hiking trails and art

The Phare de Borne route is a moderately challenging 9.9-kilometre circular hike that takes about three hours. At Col du Bez, there is a car park opposite the auberge for the route. As route details may be updated, it is advisable to check the information before setting out. The GR4 and GR7 also meet at the same col, giving both long-distance trails their own starting point for planning a hike.

The contemporary artwork Le Phare by Gloria Friedman stands at Moure de l’Abéouradou on the GR7. Its location is on the watershed between the Atlantic and Mediterranean. An observation platform offers a 360-degree panoramic view. La Croix de Bauzon ski resort is also part of the municipality’s sports and outdoor offering. So, alongside hiking trails, other outdoor activities are also a focus in Borne.

Gorges and water

Below the Tour de Borne, the Gorges de la Borne offer natural pools, waterfalls and viewpoints. The renovated tower is perched on a rock below the village, above the river gorges. Due to the risk of falling rocks, the structure cannot be visited. Canyoning trips are organised in the gorges with a specialist guide; availability may vary. Swimming in the river is not supervised. Check local conditions before entering the water.

Moorlands, heathland and forest

The Taranis Arga interpretation trail passes through moorlands, upland heath and a forest associated with the Abbaye des Chambons. Drosera, also known as sundew, can be seen in the bogs along the trail. This carnivorous plant is best admired without picking it. The trail offers a different landscape focus from the gorges: it passes through several different types of landscape rather than centring on a single viewpoint.

Historic traces

Borne’s cultural heritage includes the remains of the Cistercian abbey, Abbaye cistercienne des Chambons, a former medieval keep dating from the 12th century, and the 19th-century Église Saint-Sauveur. The Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Voyageurs is also located at Col du Bez. The Clocher de Tourmente du Mas de Truc once served a practical purpose: during snowstorms, it helped travellers find their way. This historic function is quite distinct from that of the religious buildings and abbey remains.

A visit to La Ferme aux Saveurs de Borne

La Ferme aux Saveurs de Borne offers chestnut spread, chestnut flour and natural chestnuts; product availability may vary. A visit to the sheepfolds is possible by reservation. As reservation arrangements may change, it is best to check in advance before visiting.

If you are looking for a holiday rental in Borne, first decide whether hiking, gorges, landscapes or cultural heritage will shape your trip.

Discover more destinations: Labastide-sur-Bésorgues, Étables, Mezilhac, Le Pouzin, St. Andéol De Berg, Saint-Marcel-Dardeche, Rocher, Cheminas

Return to the main travel overview: Ardèche.