Ardèche, France

Limestone cliffs rise above forested valleys where the Ardèche river carved through rock. Viewpoints reveal layer after layer of ridges, dry grassland on top transitioning to dense forest below.

The Pont d’Arc spans 60 meters, a natural limestone arch where the river cuts through rock. Water reflects turquoise against pale stone. The arch marks the entrance to the gorge.

Erosion shapes limestone into towers, arches, and layered outcrops. Sedimentary strata visible in cliff faces, millions of years compressed into horizontal lines. Rock surfaces pitted and worn, holes and caves carved by water.

Moss blankets limestone boulders in deep forest. Lichen covers branches, green and pale gray against dark trunks. Paths wind between rocks, dappled light filtering through canopy.

Sunlight scatters across lake surface, forested slopes rising from water. Lone rock towers stand on hilltops, remnants of eroded plateaus.