4.4
(886)
4,542
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking around Crest, Drôme, offers diverse routes combining natural beauty with historical elements. The region is characterized by the Drôme River banks, providing pleasant walks, and ridges overlooking the town that offer panoramic views of the Vercors mountains and the Ardèche plateau. Trails often lead through forests of oak and pine trees, with some paths offering vistas of the Rhône Valley and Vercors Massif. The terrain includes rolling hills and river valleys, providing varied experiences for hikers.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.5
(42)
184
hikers
5.83km
01:56
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(11)
55
hikers
5.72km
01:55
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
25
hikers
14.9km
04:39
460m
460m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(2)
17
hikers
11.4km
03:14
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
18
hikers
2.95km
00:45
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Crest Castle is the ruin of a hilltop castle above the southern French commune of Crest in the Drôme department. Its preserved keep, at 52 meters high, is probably the highest in France and has been listed as a historical monument since June 1877. Crest Castle was built in several phases from the 10th century to the second half of the 14th century. It was owned by the French crown from 1419 onwards. Louis XIII had it demolished in 1633, with the exception of the keep, which still stands today. The tower then served as a prison until the mid-19th century. In 1988, the commune of Crest acquired it from the French state. The tower has a floor area of 20 by 32 meters and a height of 52 meters. Portcullises, defensive bay windows, and loopholes bear witness to its past as a medieval fortification. The tower has 15 rooms, which were used as living quarters in the Middle Ages and as prison cells after 1633. Numerous graffiti date from this period, including those by Protestants imprisoned there. Source: Wikipedia A tour of the tower is open to the public. The current cost is €10 per adult. The bravest can abseil down the tower's east wall from a height of 42 meters, but this wasn't possible during our visit, presumably due to a lack of tourists.
0
0
Pretty views of the river Drome and the valley in both directions, with the tower of Crest visible above the town in a third direction. The bridge has a specific pedestrian/cycle path with seating all the way along it so you can have a good view of the river while catching your breath.
0
0
Crest is a small town in the Drôme Valley. It is the gateway to the Vercors from the west.
1
0
This path offers a beautiful course on the heights of Crest. The views of the surrounding fields and mountains are stunning as you run along the ridge line.
2
0
Here, we find the river which gives its name to the department. The changing colors depending on the time of day and the weather make it a real impressionist painting. This point also offers an excellent view of the Tour de Crest.
0
0
This path offers a beautiful walk on the heights of Crest. There is a magnificent view of the surrounding fields and mountains. Take your cameras !
2
0
Hiking around Crest offers a diverse landscape. You'll find pleasant walks along the Drôme River banks, trails through forests of oak and pine trees, and paths leading up to ridges that provide panoramic views of the Vercors mountains and the Ardèche plateau. The terrain generally features rolling hills and river valleys, catering to various preferences.
Yes, Crest offers several family-friendly hiking options. Many routes are classified as easy to moderate, making them accessible for various fitness levels. For instance, the The Drôme – The Drôme at Crest loop from Crest is a moderate 8.7 km trail that follows the river, offering a pleasant experience for families.
Many trails in the Crest region are suitable for dogs, especially those along the Drôme River banks and through forested areas. It's always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near agricultural land. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Yes, circular routes are a popular way to explore Crest. A great example is The Rocks and the Tower of Crest - loop, a moderate 5.8 km trail that takes you past the historic Crest Tower and offers scenic views. Another option is the Nice view loop from Crest, a 4.6 km path providing scenic overlooks of the Drôme Valley.
While hiking near Crest, you can encounter several interesting landmarks and enjoy stunning viewpoints. The historic Crest Tower (Donjon de Crest) is a prominent feature, and routes like The Rocks and the Tower of Crest - loop offer views of it. For panoramic vistas, consider trails around old Divajeu, which provide views of the Grand Veymont and the Ardèche. You can also find highlights like the Ramières Ponds and various mountain passes such as Jérôme Cavalli Pass.
The Drôme region around Crest is pleasant for hiking for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer can be warm, making riverside walks particularly appealing. The region's diverse landscapes, from riverbanks to forested hillsides, provide enjoyable conditions across different seasons.
Absolutely! Crest has over 14 easy hiking routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. These often include pleasant walks along the Drôme River banks. A good option is The Drôme at Crest – the Drôme loop from Crest, a moderate 5.7 km trail that is relatively flat and follows the river.
While many routes in Crest are moderate, there are options for more experienced hikers seeking a challenge. The region's ridges overlooking the town offer elevation gain and superb panoramic views. For example, the Crest Tower – The Crest Ridges loop from Crest is a moderate 12.8 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a more demanding experience and extensive vistas of the Rhône Valley and Vercors Massif.
The hiking trails around Crest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 800 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from the tranquil Drôme River banks to the panoramic ridge views of the Vercors mountains. The combination of natural beauty and historical elements, such as the Crest Tower, also receives positive feedback.
Yes, the Drôme River banks are a defining feature of hiking in Crest. Many trails offer pleasant walks directly alongside the water, providing a refreshing experience. The The Drôme at Crest – the Drôme loop from Crest is a prime example, leading you through riverside paths.
There are over 37 hiking routes around Crest, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 14 easy trails, 22 moderate routes, and 1 more difficult option, ensuring there's something for every ability level.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.