The Vercors

The most popular activities are walking, cycling, horse-riding, caving, hang-gliding, ballooning and, in the winter of course, skiing – the ski resort at Lans-en-Vercors being the most popular base for this. Increasingly popular with sightseers in summer, there is a tourist train operating from St.Georges-de-Commiers, but for motorists perhaps the most spectacular drive involves starting from St.Nazaiere-en-Royans (North-East of Valence) via the D531 and D106 through the Gorges de la Bourne to finish at Grenoble. Alternatively you could start from Veurey-Voroize, just north-west of Grenoble, climb the twisty road to La Buffe, with great views, and continue south to La Moliere, where, at over 1500m, there are splendid views. 

Nearby, at Gouffre-Berger there are some of the most famous pot-holes in France. Other sights you should try to see are the spectacular Grands Goulets, on the D518, the Combe Laval and the drive from Jean-en-Royans over the Col de la Machine to Foret de Lente. The famous Col de Rousset, on the D518, and the descent to the town of Die affords truly spectacular views.

Although many visit the Vercors for its natural beauty, and to take part in the many activities available there, for others, particularly those with an interest in the history of the Second World War, it’s the association with the French Resistance and the British S.O.E that attracts them. The whole area is a natural fortress, the centre of the French Resistance, with the cemetery at Vassieux-en-Vercors being the most poignant reminder of those dreadful times.