Train de l'Ardèche Le Mastrou
Ride an authentic steam train through the stunning Doux River Valley, a journey back in time.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming landscapes, pleasant weather
Train de l'Ardèche Le Mastrou
Best Time
Blooming landscapes, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride an authentic steam train through the stunning Doux River Valley, a journey back in time.
"A wonderful narrow gauge heritage railway running up the lovely valley of the river Doux. A great day out."
Authentic Experience
Enjoy the open-air cars with wooden seats for a truly vintage feel. :train2:
Scenic Views Guaranteed
The train follows the Doux river, offering stunning gorge and countryside panoramas. :mount_fuji:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mastrou Steam Train
Experience an authentic, coal-fired steam locomotive chugging through a picturesque river valley.
Doux River Valley
Route from Tournon-sur-Rhône to Lamastre
Marvel at the dramatic gorges and lush chestnut groves as the train winds its way along the river.
Lamastre Stopover
Enjoy a break in the charming town of Lamastre, with options for a delightful lunch before the return journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Authentic Experience
Enjoy the open-air cars with wooden seats for a truly vintage feel. :train2:
Scenic Views Guaranteed
The train follows the Doux river, offering stunning gorge and countryside panoramas. :mount_fuji:
Book Lunch in Lamastre
Consider a lunch break in Lamastre; it's a highlight for many visitors. :knifeforkplate:
Parking Availability
Parking is available on-site, making it convenient for drivers. :red_car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Authentic Experience
Enjoy the open-air cars with wooden seats for a truly vintage feel. :train2:
Scenic Views Guaranteed
The train follows the Doux river, offering stunning gorge and countryside panoramas. :mount_fuji:
Book Lunch in Lamastre
Consider a lunch break in Lamastre; it's a highlight for many visitors. :knifeforkplate:
Parking Availability
Parking is available on-site, making it convenient for drivers. :red_car:
Announcer Insights
Listen to the announcer for interesting facts about the sights. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the authentic steam train experience and the breathtaking scenery of the Doux River Valley. The journey is described as a wonderful step back in time, with many recommending it as a great day out for all ages. Some note the 1.5-hour one-way trip and the enjoyable lunch stop in Lamastre.
"Authentic old fashioned coal fired steam locative. Open air cars with wooden seats. Gorgeous scenery. It takes about 1.5 hrs round trip."
Roger McCoy
"A wonderful narrow gauge (metre) heritage railway running up the lovely valley of the river Doux. A beautifully restored steam locomotive and carriages wind their way through a tunnel and over viaducts with time for a good lunch at Lamastre before returning. A great day out. Highly recommended."
Phillip Spencer
"One of our favorite experiences, we did it several years ago but I think this year we will go back, You can just enjoy nature and the train trip all day. There is a parking on site.
10/10 recommend"
Andreea Novac
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main departure point is typically from Tournon-sur-Rhône or Saint Jean de Muzols. You can drive and park on-site, or check local bus routes if coming from nearby towns. Some visitors mention proximity to camping sites like Ardeche le Castelet.
Yes, there is parking available on-site at the railway station, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While direct public transport to the specific station might be limited, you can often reach the larger towns like Tournon-sur-Rhône by bus or train and then arrange local transport or a taxi. It's best to check regional transport schedules.
Le Mastrou typically operates between Tournon-sur-Rhône and Lamastre, with departures often from Saint Jean de Muzols.
Travel time will vary greatly depending on your starting point. If driving from nearby cities like Valence, it's usually around 30-45 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially for popular dates or special events, as they can sell out. You can usually purchase them through the official Train de l'Ardèche website.
Operating hours and days vary seasonally. The season typically opens in April and runs through autumn. Special trains like the Easter train have specific dates. Always check the official website for the most current schedule.
Ticket prices can vary based on the route and any special events. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing information for adults, children, and families.
Often, heritage railways offer discounted rates for families or groups. Check the ticketing section of the official website for any available promotions or group booking options.
While it might be possible to buy tickets on the day, it's not guaranteed, especially during peak season or for special themed trains. Booking in advance is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The round trip journey, including a stopover in Lamastre, typically takes a significant portion of the day, allowing time to enjoy the scenery and the town. The actual train ride itself is around 1.5 hours each way.
Le Mastrou is an authentic, old-fashioned coal-fired steam locomotive, offering a nostalgic and unique travel experience.
The carriages often feature open-air seating with traditional wooden seats, providing an immersive experience of the journey and the surrounding nature.
Yes, children often find the steam train experience very exciting. The novelty of the steam engine and the beautiful scenery make it a fun outing for families.
Lamastre is a charming town where you can enjoy a break, have lunch, and explore a bit before the return journey. It's a pleasant stopover point.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire route offers stunning photographic opportunities. Look for dramatic viaducts, tunnels, and scenic river bends. The departure and arrival stations also provide good shots of the locomotive. 
Absolutely! The open-air carriages allow for excellent photo opportunities of the passing landscapes. Be mindful of other passengers and hold on securely.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful golden hour shots. Spring and autumn offer vibrant colors for landscape photography.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both the train and the landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be great for the dramatic gorges.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and heritage sites. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets for a themed event, such as the Easter train, which often includes special activities for younger passengers. The stopover in Lamastre also provides a good opportunity for a family picnic or a simple lunch. Remember to dress in layers, as the open carriages can be cooler, and bring snacks and drinks for the journey.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1The route provides numerous vantage points for capturing the valley's beauty. Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both the train and the expansive scenery. The golden hours of early morning and late afternoon can yield particularly dramatic lighting. Remember to be respectful of other passengers and the environment when seeking the perfect shot.
🕰️ History Buffs & Nostalgia Seekers
+1As you journey through the Doux River Valley, imagine the bustling activity of the past when this line was a lifeline for local communities. The experience is enhanced by the authentic sounds and smells of the steam engine, providing a truly immersive historical adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Le Mastrou
After its commercial service ended, the line fell into disuse. However, thanks to the dedication of local enthusiasts and preservation societies, the railway was revived as a tourist attraction. Today, Le Mastrou operates with authentic steam locomotives, offering visitors a unique journey back in time and a chance to experience the charm of early 20th-century rail travel. The Mallet locomotive, a type of articulated steam engine, is a particular highlight for railway aficionados.
The route itself is a marvel of engineering, winding through the picturesque Gorges du Doux. This scenic path was chosen to navigate the challenging terrain, resulting in breathtaking views of the river, viaducts, and tunnels. The preservation of this line ensures that both the historical significance of the railway and the natural beauty of the Ardèche landscape are shared with new generations.
Experiencing the Doux River Valley
+1Travelers often describe the scenery as breathtaking and serene. The route features impressive engineering feats, including several viaducts that offer elevated perspectives of the valley below, and tunnels that add an element of adventure to the ride. The air is often filled with the nostalgic scent of coal smoke and the rhythmic sound of the steam engine, creating an immersive sensory experience that transports you to another era.
During spring, the valley bursts with the colors of blooming flora, while summer offers vibrant greens. Autumn transforms the landscape into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Regardless of the season, the Gorges du Doux provide a magnificent backdrop, making the train ride a truly memorable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit