Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Julien-En-Vercors - Top 20

The region is rich in natural wonders. You can marvel at the breathtaking Cirque of Combe Laval, known for its road carved into the cliff face. The Gorges de la Bourne offer spectacular canyon views, and the Rocher du Saint-Julien, dominating the village, is popular for climbing. Don't miss the natural rock arch and waterfall at Moulin Marquis or the impressive Porte du Diable.

Yes, the Vercors Regional Natural Park offers over 4,000 km of marked hiking trails. You can find various routes, including a moderate 15.7 km loop with views of Choranche and Pas de l'Allier, or a challenging 4.7 km loop to Porte des Ancêtres and Porte du Diable. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Saint-Julien-En-Vercors.

The Vercors is a fantastic destination for cyclists. The Cirque of Combe Laval is an exceptional road cycling destination. You can also find gravel biking routes, such as the challenging 48.5 km 'Plaine d'Herbouilly – Col d'Herbouilly loop'. For a comprehensive list of options, check out the road cycling guide and gravel biking guide for the area.

Absolutely. The renowned Grotte de Choranche is a must-see, famous for its magnificent stalagmites and unique fistulous stalactites. Guided tours take you through impressive chambers. Additionally, you can discover the natural rock arch and waterfall at Moulin Marquis and the impressive Porte du Diable, a natural rock arch offering panoramic views.

For stunning vistas, head to Arc Pass, which culminates at 1,736 meters and offers magnificent views of Belledonne, Les Rousses, and Les Écrins. The Machine Pass also provides a spectacular panorama of the Vercors massif. The Porte du Diable, after a climb along a cliff, also rewards visitors with vast panoramic views of the Gorges de la Bourne.

The region has a rich history. The picturesque village of Pont-en-Royans is known for its distinctive architecture and suspended houses. The Vercors massif was also a significant stronghold for the French Resistance during World War II, with nearby sites like the Memorial to the Resistance in Vercors in Vassieux-en-Vercors offering insights into this period. The 'Cournouze' sites also hold historical significance, with evidence of Mesolithic camps and WWII events.

Yes, families can enjoy the charming village of Pont-en-Royans with its unique architecture and opportunities for a refreshing swim in the Bourne. The Grotte de Choranche offers engaging guided tours suitable for various ages. For winter fun, the broader Vercors region includes the Toboggan Park Villard de Lans.

The Vercors Regional Natural Park is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is ideal for longer hikes, climbing, and exploring the gorges. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy paradise, perfect for winter sports at nearby resorts like Station Autrans-Méaudre en Vercors.

Beyond Saint-Julien-En-Vercors, consider visiting Lans-en-Vercors, a more important town popular for various sports and featuring typical architecture and the Church of Saint Bartholomew. Pont-en-Royans is also a picturesque village known for its distinctive suspended houses.

Yes, you can discover local products from farms and producers, such as cheese from 'Les Caprines du Vercors' and 'Ferme Perce Neige'. Seasonal markets are also held in nearby villages like La Chapelle en Vercors and Saint Agnan en Vercors, offering a taste of local life and produce.

When visiting the Vercors Regional Natural Park, especially the Réserve Naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors, it's important to respect the natural environment. The reserve is only accessible on foot. Always stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and carry out all your waste. Specific regulations regarding dogs may apply in certain protected areas, so it's advisable to check local signage.

The Plateau d'Herbouilly, located about 8 km from Saint-Julien-En-Vercors, is a magnificent natural site. It serves as an excellent starting point for various outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, paragliding, climbing, and caving. It's also an entry point to the Réserve Naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors, offering access to its stunning landscapes.