Photo : Bublegun / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Chemin de fer du Vivarais
The Chemin de fer du Vivarais, nicknamed the Mastrou, is a tourist train in the Ardèche linking Saint-Jean-de-Muzols, near Tournon, to Lamastre. The route of about 28 kilometres follows the River Doux, crosses bridges and viaducts and passes through tunnels, then runs through the Doux gorges before reaching the Ardèche plateau, with its orchards and chestnut groves.
The train is usually steam-hauled, with steam locomotive no. 414, and exceptionally diesel-hauled. On arrival at Lamastre, the engine is turned by hand on the turntable. A stop of about fifteen minutes halfway allows time for a drink.
Belle Époque-style first-class compartments are available, as well as a van for bicycles. The trip can be combined with the Dolce Via and ViaRhôna cycle routes. Services are seasonal, and the website announces the next season in 2027.
