Culture and History
The Grotte Mandrin in Malataverne is the oldest archaeological site in the Drôme and is one of Europe’s most significant sites associated with the last Neanderthals and the first Homo sapiens. It has been excavated since 1990 and has yielded traces of human settlement dating from between 50,000 and 42,000 years ago.
Notre-Dame de Montchamp was built in the 11th century and is a Romanesque-style church. From its position on the hill, it offers views over the valley.
The Chapelle Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Rac has a beautifully constructed limestone façade; some blocks bear decorative stonework or masons’ marks. The chapel is the venue for several cultural events organised by the R.A.C. association (Rencontre Animation Culture) and was open to visitors every September on the occasion of the Heritage Days.
Anyone wishing to rent a holiday apartment in Malataverne can use it to plan their stay.
Hiking
The Le Navon et le Rhône hiking trail is a 11.19 km moderately difficult circular hike with 290 m of elevation gain and leads to Navon, a summit marking the boundary between Malataverne and Châteauneuf-du-Rhône.
Geographical Setting
Several historical and ancient sites are located in the vicinity of Malataverne: the historic site of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Bon Secours, the ancient site of Alba-la-Romaine (Ardèche, France) – Théâtre gallo-romain, Aiguebelle Abbey, and Château de Grignan.
In the wider region around Malataverne are Serre Pelé mountain, Mont Rachas mountain, Dent de Rez summit, and Sommet de Barrès summit.
