Webzine Ardèche

Sarras, an Ardèche village on the banks of the Rhône

Sarras is a commune in the north of the Ardèche in the Porte de Drôm-Ardèche community of communes, on the banks of the Rhône between Saint-Désirat and Ozon.

Sarras, village in Ardèche 07350

Sarras in the Ardèche

Located in the Ardèche department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, the commune of Sarras covers an area of almost 12 km² and has just over 2,200 inhabitants. Nestling between the Rhône, the foothills of the Monts du Vivarais and the Ay valley, Sarras offers a peaceful living environment and a rich heritage, bearing witness to its history and specific geography.

A little geography

Sarras lies on the right bank of the Rhône, at an average altitude of 262 metres. The commune is bordered by the river to the east and the first slopes of the Massif Central to the west, where the Ay and Rhône rivers meet. This geographical location gives Sarras an altered Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot summers, mild winters and rainy springs and autumns.

The region is criss-crossed by a number of major transport routes, including the D86 departmental road that runs along the right bank of the Rhône, a railway dedicated to goods traffic, and the ViaRhôna, a cycle route that also runs along the river.

  • Sarras map (Géoportail, IGN) :

A touch of history

The village of Sarras has a rich historical past, with remains testifying to its importance over the centuries. The narrow streets and stone houses of the old centre reflect the traditional architecture of the Ardèche. Notable buildings include several successive churches, dating back to the Middle Ages, as well as 3 châteaux and old buildings dotted around the village.

A zest for the local economy

Sarras’ economy is mainly based on agriculture, with mixed farming and livestock rearing. Winegrowing is also present, benefiting from the favourable climatic conditions of the Rhône Valley, particularly with the Saint-Joseph AOC. The commune is also home to a number of craftsmen and local shops that contribute to the local economy.

Photo of the village of Sarras in the Ardèche with the Rhône River in the background, the railway and the fields in between.
Sarras and the Rhône / wikimedia

Places of interest in Sarras


🏛️ Historical and cultural heritage

  • Plural churches

In the 16th century, the castle chapel became a church outside the walls, which became a priory in the 17th century. The current church dates from the 19th century. A chapel, Notre-Dame-d’Espérance de Sarras, was also built in the 19th century.

  • 3 castles

The first, on the hill of Revirand, left only traces of a tower and walls after its destruction in the 14th century. In the centre of the village, another castle marks the village by its traces still present: gate, towers, covered way, courtyard of honour and a remaining part of the building. Finally, on the heights in the hamlet of Carret, there is another Renaissance-style castle.

🌿 Natural areas and leisure

  • Banks of the Rhône

They are designed for walking or cycling along the river, and offer opportunities to observe the local wildlife (herons, beavers, ducks, etc.) or go fishing.

  • ViaRhôna

The cycle path crosses the commune from the road bridge at Saint-Vallier and the Drôme. It is used by touring cyclists and local users, with a link to the Via Fluvia via the Ay valley. Cycle stops are available to discover the historic centre and its heritage.
➡ Find out more about the ViaRhôna in Sarras?

  • Walking tour

The trails around Sarras offer routes suitable for all levels, with stunning views over the Rhône valley, with paths along the Ay valley.
➡ Hiking trails around the Ideal Palace

🚉 Transport and access

The D86 departmental road (formerly the RN86) crosses the commune, linking it to Saint-Vallier and Annonay to the north, and Tournon-sur-Rhône to the south. TheA7 motorway exits at Chanas to the north and Tain l’Hermitage to the south.

The nearest train station is Saint-Vallier, on the other side of the Rhône, with links to Valence and Lyon.

For public transport, visit the page dedicated to buses in the Ardèche.

Weather in the commune

And to help you organise your activities in Sarras, here is the weather forecast for the next few days, including temperatures, wind and rainfall:

Where to sleep?

Are you looking for a hotel, apartment in Sarras or any other type of accommodation in Sarras for a night, a weekend or a longer stay in or near the town? Here’s what to look for and find, according to your needs and budget:

Lien web

Sarras on the map

Location of the commune and situation in the Ardèche on the banks of the Rhône River :