FRANCE	FRANCE
région: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
département: 07, Ardèche

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Vals-les-Bains is located at the river Ardèche in the south of the département Ardèche, in the natural reserve region Monts d'Ardèche. Known for its thermal springs, the municipality of Vals-les-Bains has a population of about 3,500 (1999).

The history of Vals-les-Bains is intimately connected with its thermal springs, which became popular in the 17th century. Between the 16th and 18th century, there were frequent battles between Vals and the neighbouring community of Aubenas.

In 1940, Vals-les-Bains was the site of incarceration of several leading figures of the Front populaire, the allegiance of left-wing parties during the interwar period.

The geyser (source intermittente) was discovered in 1865 and rises every 6 hours. Sometimes the geyser reaches a height of 16 metres. Although controlled to a certain degree, it is not possible to predict the exact moment of its eruption.

Glass no. 2482 [near left] also is labeled as a souvenir from Vals-les-Bains but actually shows a view of the neighbouring community of Labégude.