The Dragonnade Trail

The Dragonnade Trail is the ancient royal road built in the time of Louis XIV.

The route follows in four steps, punctuated by interpretation panels:

• Privas – Col du moulin à vent (8 km)
• Col du moulin à vent – Saint-Pierreville (22 km)
• Saint-Pierreville – Saint-Christol (17 km)
• Saint-Christol – Le Cheylard (13 km)

The Dragonnade Trail was opened in the 17th century by Louis XIV in order to “control” the Protestant resistance of the Boutières. This historical route leads you to the discovery of its history and places of memory associated with a troubled period, which built the identity of the region.

Departing from Privas, you set off in the footsteps of the Dragons du Roy in a peri-urban atmosphere. A vigorous ascent offers a view on the historic city. The second stage gives you access to major sites linked to the Wars of Religion, through beautiful rural paths in a rural landscape.

Little by little, you are in the heart of the chestnut groves and a magnificent view opens onto Saint-Pierreville. Discover this typical Ardèche village with its 3 castles, the Serre de la Palle and its terrible history and the one of the Pont du Fau in St-Christol.

The route ends with more serenity, in a bucolic atmosphere, along the river Talaron. You approach the old town of Cheylard by its most picturesque profile with an arrival at the Château de la Chèze, an unmissable monument of the city dating from the 12th century.

The Dragonnade Trail is steeped in history, heritage and diverse landscapes, each more beautiful than the last. This itinerant hike is a real treat!