- Lucie TESTARD
- - July 15, 2026
Soyons, small Ardèche village clinging above the Rhône, is one of those places that we sometimes cross without stopping and regret having ignored. Yet, it only takes a day to understand why this piece of limestone cliff fascinates since prehistory. Caves, museum, miniature trains, bike by the water: here is the ideal program not to miss anything !
In the morning : on the way to the heights
The path of the goddess Soio
To begin the discovery of Soyons, head for the heights of the village with the path of the goddess Soïo. This interpretation loop course of about 1.5 km (lasting about 2h30) allows a fun and educational immersion in the massif. The departure is from the parking of the caves, at the level of chemin du Vivier.
Along the way, stations and signs explain the nature, geology and history of the site, while highlighting the landscapes of the Rhone valley and the richness of the natural environment.
To complete the visit, a book of discovery is available for free at the Maison des Vins et du Tourisme de Saint-Péray in the archaeological museum of Soyons or with the link just below !
The cave of Néron : a journey to the heart of prehistory
After the climb, head for the caves. Classified as a historical monument, the cave of Néron offers a true immersion in the world of prehistory. The visit allows to address different themes related to archaeology and discoveries made on the site.
We discover the work of archaeologists and their excavation techniques, but also the life of the Neanderthal : his lifestyle, his environment and his methods to produce and use fire. The course also goes back to the evolution of flint tools and cutting techniques used at the time.
The cave finally allows to evoke the prehistoric fauna that occupied these places, including some carnivores who lived in the natural cavities of the region.
The " The Fox Hole" (Trou du renard) : a spectacular natural setting
Right next to it, the Fox Hole offers a completely different atmosphere from the Nero’s cave. Here, we leave archaeology to enter a universe entirely shaped by nature.
The cave reveals a splendid network of limestone concretions : stalactites, stalagmites, draperies and columns form an impressive decoration, sculpted over time by infiltration waters. The whole gives the cavity an almost magical atmosphere.
Indoors, the temperature remains constant at around 15°C year-round, regardless of the weather outside. A small wool is therefore recommended, even in summer.
This complementarity between the cave of Néron, centered on prehistory, and the Trou du Renard, true natural work, illustrates all the richness of the site of Soyons.
Practical information about the caves :
Opening hours :
- From April 1 to June 30 and from September 1 to October 31: From Wednesday to Sunday: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- From 1 July to 31 August: every day from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Guided tours all year for groups by appointment (group from 15 people). The guided tour of the caves lasts about 1 hour. Guided tours of the caves start every 30 minutes. Last guided tour starts: 1 hour before closing.
The leaning tower : medieval remains and panorama of the valle
After the discovery of the caves, you can make a small detour by the leaning tower of Soyons before returning to the village. Listed as a historical monument, it dates from the late 12th or early 13th century and is the only vestige of the old medieval fortifications.
Perched at 218 meters above sea level, it offers a wide panorama of the Rhone valley, from Vercors to Mont Ventoux, and is a pleasant stop to take a break and admire the view.
Its inclination is linked to the destruction of the village and fortifications in 1629, during the siege led by the troops of Louis XIII, which resulted in the gradual disappearance of the medieval site.
This emblematic place concludes the discovery of the heights before reaching the center of the village!
A break at the brewery 3:6:9 Beer Craft
After the walk on the heights and before continuing to discover the village, stop at the 3:6:9 Bière Craft brewery. Its name refers to the mistral that blows in the Rhône valley for 3, 6 or 9 days.
The brewery offers modern and creative craft beers, inspired by the international craft scene. Generously hopped IPA, tangy fruit beers or stouts with notes of coffee and chocolate: everyone can find their favorite style.
With its many ephemeral recipes and innovative spirit, 3:6:9 Craft Beer is an ideal stop to quench your thirst before continuing to explore the village !
The archaeological museum : to end the morning on a high note
After the leaning tower, the discovery continues down to the heart of the village of Soyons.
Located in the centre of the village, the archaeological museum presents the history of the site and local human occupation, from prehistory to the Middle Ages. It brings together a selection of objects from the excavations carried out in Soyons and its surroundings, chosen for their scientific interest.
The tour takes place through four permanent exhibition rooms, organized chronologically. We discover there in particular a partial skeleton of mammoth, carved stone tools of the man of Neanderthal, an altar dedicated to the goddess Soïo, as well as Gallo-Roman elements like mosaics and ceramics.
Lunch break : well deserved !
After the morning of discovery between caves, tower and museum, head to the center of the village of Soyons for a well-deserved break.
Two main addresses allow you to settle down and enjoy a friendly moment :
- Café de la Gare, located in the old station of the village, this restaurant offers a daily cuisine based on seasonal products and short circuit. The address also functions as a tea room and regularly organizes events and concerts, in a lively and atypical atmosphere, close to the ViaRhôna. Learn more
- La Marmite showcases a traditional and generous cuisine, with stewed dishes and local products from the Ardèche region. The atmosphere is family, warm and focused on local flavors. Learn more
In both cases, we find a simple, local and authentic cuisine, faithful to the gourmet spirit of the region !
In the afternoon : time for relaxation
The Garden of the Ardèche Trains : A miniature Ardèche
After lunch, what could be better than a leisurely stroll to digest ? Direction the Ardéchois Trains Garden, an unusual visit that appeals to both children and adults.
In this 2,800 m2 garden, the Ardèche is reproduced on a scale of 1:22 through models of the most emblematic sites of the department. Following the route of the sound-activated small trains, you will discover in particular the Pont d'Arc, the Mont Gerbier de Jonc, the Lake of Issarlès or the castle of Crussol.
The trains circulate between stations, tunnels, viaducts and rivers in the middle of more than 900 bonsai and many figurines, in a setting entirely imagined by enthusiasts. The park also offers several activities for the whole family, including a large slide, games and entertainment organized throughout the season.
An original and intergenerational visit that allows you to discover the Ardèche differently before ending the day by the Rhône.
The Lônes of Soyons by bike
To end the day smoothly, head for Les Lônes de Soyons for a bike ride along the Rhône.
This natural space offers a peaceful setting, ideal for taking the air after a day full of discoveries. The route joins the ViaRhôna, the famous cycle route that runs along the river, and allows you to enjoy varied landscapes between water, vegetation and preserved spaces.
Throughout the course, we discover a remarkable natural environment where fauna and flora occupy an important place. The pace is quiet, the terrain accessible, and the views of the Rhône regularly invite you to take a break.
A beautiful way to conclude this day in Soyons, between nature and relaxation.
An interactive walk with Baludik
There is also a complementary activity to discover Let’s be different thanks to the Baludik app.
Baludik offers several fun routes in the villages of Rhône Crussol, including Soyons. In total, 13 routes are available for families to discover the territory in a different way.
The route available in Soyons, entitled "La princesse à la recherche de son bien-aimé" (The princess in search of her beloved) offers a ride of about 1h30 through the village. Throughout the course, participants follow a story, solve small games and discover information about places and heritage, in order to explore the village while having fun.
Android : Download Baludik Android
iOS : Download Baludik IOS
Excellent visit and beautiful discovery of the village !
Don’t forget a bottle of water and a cap, especially during hot weather !
For more information, you can go to the House of Wines and Tourism or contact us at 04 75 40 46 75. The team will be happy to help you plan your day !
