Alboussière is a commune in the Ardèche department, in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, 20 km west of Valence.
Its territory of 18 km² ranges from 234 to 774 m in altitude, located on the edge of a Vivarais plateau, between the Monts d'Ardèche and the Rhône valley to the east.
The locality presents a character and green landscapes, covered for 46% of its surface by forests, agricultural zones (32%) and meadows (11%).
This preserved natural heritage that the Duzon river crosses, is adjacent to a pleasant body of water and overlooked by wooded hills, is the primary asset of Alboussière. The small town and its gaps where there are a total of nearly 1000 inhabitants also have narrow streets of character and some heritage items of interest. This is therefore a stopover or even a holiday resort near the Rhône Valley capable of seducing lovers of "nature" tourism.
In terms of heritage, Alboussière retains several sites and buildings of interest. The most notable is the Château de Crozat, protected as a historical monument. It is an old 14th century fortified house built in a green setting which was enlarged in the 18th century before being transformed in the 19th century according to plans by the architect Louis-Achille Tracol. Now a residence of noble craftsmanship (thanks to its freestone and its neo-classical style), overlooking a wooded park via terraces, the castle hosts receptions. Information on +33 4 69 30 50 84.
In the village which has a picturesque aspect with its characterful alleys, to see next, the Protestant temple built in 1823 and completed just before the First World War by the development of stands and meeting rooms. Testimony to the secular anchoring of the Reformed religion in the region, the austere-looking building is renowned for its facade made of granite rubble.
You can still see the parish church of Saint-Didier de Crussol, built in 1960 and still one of the rare religious buildings of contemporary architecture in the department: it replaced a 12th century chapel which for a time depended on the college of Jesuits from Le Puy and which had been remodeled in the 15th century. Its highlighted remains are still visible.
On the leisure side, a playground and walking paths have been laid out on the banks of the Lauzon near the campsite, which is open from June to September and includes a swimming pool (contact on +33 4 75 58 20 91).
In the same sector, the body of water bordered by poplars lends itself to idleness and fishing. Picnic tables, a bowling alley and a sports field are available to the public. Fishermen also appreciate the site, but swimming is not permitted here. In season, a snack bar is open and musical festivities enliven the place. Information on +33 4 75 58 30 64 and +33 4 75 59 83 75.
Note also that it is possible to reserve a tennis court with the local club (join +33 6 75 35 50 50).
Another point of interest is the Terre Pimprenelle landscape garden, where there are more than 1,200 trees and shrubs of 600 different varieties. Laid out over one hectare, with geometric structures (in ellipses, triangles or spirals), crossed by a stream, the site retains megalithic rocks and has a charming little open-air theatre. Labeled Remarkable Garden, renowned for its collection of ginko, its trees and plants are presented with labels and didactic panels for the public. Open every day. Admission: 5 and 8 euros. Information on +33 4 75 80 00 27.
For hiking enthusiasts, in addition to the tour of the body of water and the banks of the Dauzon, loops are accessible which crisscross the foothills of the Vivarais, lead to the surrounding hills or head towards the Rhône… Maps and information on +33 4 75 58 20 08.
