Banne is a village found at the south-eastern edge of the Ardeche department and on the edge of the Cevennes to the south of Naves, and is listed as one of the Ardeche 'villages of character'.
Even as you approach the village and the road climbs rapidly through the rocky hills you can guess that it will have far-reaching views across the region. You are not to be disappointed.
Explore Banne
The village is perhaps better thought of as two small villages a few hundred metres apart on a ridge.
There is a central square between these two parts of Banne with shady trees, benches and great views: in one direction from here is a cluster of houses around the church, and in the other direction is the older part of the village, around the ruins of the castle that once stood here.
Both parts are of course well worth exploring, although the part around the castle is perhaps the most interesting, principally because the houses are older and more traditional of Ardeche village houses.
On this 'castle side' of Banne, there are a few streets winding through the ancient houses that you climb to reach the ruins. Just beyond the castle there is a 'table d'orientation' to help you identify the far off mountains that stand before you.
The castle itself is of limited interest, with little left standing, although the information board shows that it was at one time a very grand structure.
Banne castle was destroyed in 1792 following the French revolution, firstly by a great fire started by the revolutionary forces after several days of siege, then a few days later following a decree it was destroyed almost completely.
The Count of Saillans and his colleagues, who had tried to hold out against the revolutionary army, were captured and beheaded.
After exploring and back in the central square at Banne you will find a small cafe.
France This Way review: many of the 'most beautiful villages of France' and 'villages of character' that I have visited are described as having great views. Just to be clear - Banne is among the very best! The far-reaching views in all directions are unspoiled at all times and are truly exceptional. Unfortunately my photos don't begin to do them justice so you will have to visit yourself...
Attractions nearby
You will find a lot of possibilities in the region around Banne if you enjoy pretty villages and scenic wonders. One popular attraction is the scenery of the Bois de Païolive with unusual shaped boulders distributed throughout an ancient forest.
Among our favourite villages near here is Labeaume, in a picturesque riverside setting, while the scenic highlights of the Gorges de l'Ardeche are just a short drive to the east of Banne.
You can find more travel ideas in the Ardeche guide and the Rhone-Alpes guide.
Photos of Banne
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Map of Banne and places nearby
Visit near Banne with France This Way reviews
Naves
Stroll through the pretty village of Naves and you will see progressively more ancient houses disappearing back into the landscape
Naves guide
Saint-Ambroix
Saint-Ambroix is an interesting town, in part because of the ruined castles and the rocky 'plateau du dugas' in the village centre
Saint-Ambroix guide
Joyeuse
Explore the castle and medieval centre of Joyeuse - then head to the river beach to cool down!
Joyeuse guide
Labeaume
Both the medieval village and the river beach combine to make Labeaume very rewarding to visit
Labeaume guide
Barjac
Barjac is a historic market town in the lovely countryside of he northern Gard department
Barjac guide
Vallon Pont d'Arc
Because of the proximity to the Gorges de l'Ardeche and the lively holiday atmosphere Vallon Pont d'Arc is a good base for exploring
Vallon Pont d'Arc guide... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Ardeche
Address: Banne, Vans, Largentière, Rhone-Alpes, 7460, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 44.3675, longitude 4.15639
Plan your visit to Banne, Ardeche
Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby
- Bois de Païolive: site of natural beauty (4 km)
- Grotte de la Cocaliere: site of natural beauty (8 km)
- Jardin du mas de l'Abri: remarkable garden (15 km)
- Jardin du Tomple: remarkable garden (17 km)
- Gorges de l'Ardeche: grand site of france (19 km)
- Gorges du Gardon: grand site of france (20 km)
- Aven d'Orgnac: grand site of france (22 km)
- Balazuc: most beautiful village (23 km)
- Réserve naturelle nationale des Gorges de l'Ardèche: site of natural beauty (25 km)
- La Garde-Guerin: most beautiful village (26 km)
- Ales: ville fleurie 4* (28 km)
- Tanargue: site of natural beauty (29 km)
The French version of this page is at Banne (Francais)