Uzer brings together striking funerary monuments and architectural landmarks with opportunities for hiking and cycling. This gives trip planning a range of interests to choose from: early burial sites, historic architecture, ancient routes and scenic trails. The right mix depends on whether you would rather explore cultural history or spend time outdoors.
Funerary monuments and architectural history
The Dolmen du Ranc de Guilhaumet is a Neolithic funerary monument. Its protective tumulus has been preserved. At 336 metres above sea level, the dolmen stands at one of the highest points on the Plateau des Gras. The burial function and distinctive location give the monument two clear points of reference: its early history and the landscape of the plateau.
The Tombe du géant is also located on the Ranc de Guilhaumet. This megalithic tomb can be reached via a hiking trail. If you are interested in historic burial sites, you may want to visit it. The Bastide d’Uzer marks a different period: the building is medieval, and its owners regularly host concerts of classical vocal music. If you would like to combine your stay with a concert, check the specific dates before your trip.
The Église St Pierre is also part of the village’s architectural history; it was rebuilt in 1826. The Sautes are a different kind of built infrastructure: these are dams or raised crossings covered with large stones, which allow pedestrians to cross the river. Two lime kilns are still visible, in the Morte Mérie district and in Berjoux. Together, these buildings and structures offer different insights into the village’s history, from religious architecture to river crossings and lime kilns.
Hiking, cycling and historic routes
The marked Circuit n°21 – Le sentier des Cades circular trail starts in Uzer and is 8.8 kilometres long. Along the way, hikers discover the Plateau des Gras, a limestone landscape characterised by Mediterranean vegetation. Circuit n°22 offers panoramic views of the Tanargue and the Ardèche River. These routes have different scenic highlights: the Plateau des Gras on Le sentier des Cades and the named viewpoints on Circuit n°22.
For cyclists, the Via Ardèche, a cycle route developed as a greenway, runs just above the village of Uzer. If you are choosing between the activities mentioned, you can distinguish between a marked circular trail with a stated length, a route with panoramic views and a greenway for cycling. Each provides a separate point of reference for planning your day; they do not form a single continuous route.
Uzer also lies along the route of a Roman road. Historically, a mule track from Languedoc to Le Puy also passed through the village. These routes add a historical perspective to Uzer’s buildings and funerary monuments, showing its place along ancient routes.
When to visit and finding accommodation
Uzer’s village festival takes place on the second weekend of July. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the dates for that year’s event in advance. It is also worth confirming the dates of any concerts at the Bastide before your trip.
When looking for a hotel in Uzer, start with a simple question: would you rather explore the funerary monuments and historic buildings, or focus on hiking and cycling? Your answer can help determine which activities to prioritise in your plans.
Discover more destinations: DĂ©saignes, Chandolas, Joyeuse, La Souche, Sainte-Eulalie, Saint-Joseph-Des-Bancs, Mayres, Saint-Genest-De-Beauzon
For the regional travel overview: Ardèche.
