Attractions and places to see around Presles offer a diverse range of experiences, from dramatic mountain roads to picturesque villages and natural wonders. This region serves as a gateway to the Vercors, known for its unique landscapes and challenging routes. Visitors can explore spectacular roads carved into cliffs, discover serene waterfalls, and experience the charm of historic settlements. The area provides opportunities for road cycling, hiking, and enjoying scenic viewpoints.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
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Highlight • Waterfall
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Western entry point to the Bourne gorges, and to the magnificent road leading up to Presles.
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Here is the route for the ascent of the Col de la Machine starting from Saint-Jean-en-Royans, which passes through the incredible Combe Laval!
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A fairly demanding pass at first, but it eventually eases off as the scenery becomes incredible! 6 km at 8%, then 6%, 4%, 5% (not sure, I was just looking at the scenery) and the last two km at 4%.
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Undoubtedly the most beautiful road in the Vercors, and certainly a delight for cyclists. The climb through Saint-Jean-en-Royans is quite challenging, with numerous sections at 8-9% gradients. It's possible to do it downhill by first climbing the Col du Pionnier.
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Beautiful village with beautiful rows of houses, high above the water
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You can even take a refreshing swim in the Bourne.
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The area around Presles is rich in natural beauty, offering dramatic mountain landscapes and serene water features. You can experience the spectacular Cirque of Combe Laval, a road carved from cliffs, or visit the impressive White Waterfall on the Vernaison River, known for its foaming white water and a cool spot for a dip.
While the region is primarily known for its natural and cycling attractions, you can visit Pont-en-Royans, a picturesque village with unique architecture where old houses hang above the Bourne river. It also features a waterfall in its center and a museum dedicated to water.
The Presles area is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Road cycling is particularly popular, with routes like the Cirque of Combe Laval and the Ascent to the Col de la Machine offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs. You can find more cycling routes in the area by visiting the Cycling around Presles guide.
Yes, the region offers various hiking opportunities. While some routes are challenging, such as those around mountain passes, you can find trails that allow you to explore the natural landscapes. For specific hiking trails, you can check out the Running Trails around Presles guide, which includes routes like the 'Serre Cocu – Col de la Croix Bernard loop'.
Visitors frequently praise the spectacular scenery and the unique experience of driving or cycling on roads carved into cliffs. The Cirque of Combe Laval is often highlighted as one of the most exceptional places for road cycling in the Vercors, and the Ascent to the Col de la Machine is noted for its breathtaking landscapes and tunnels.
The picturesque village of Pont-en-Royans is considered family-friendly, offering a charming setting to explore with its unique architecture and a waterfall. It's a great spot to take in the view and enjoy some ice cream. The White Waterfall is also a natural attraction that families can enjoy, with the possibility of a refreshing swim.
Yes, some natural attractions are dog-friendly. For instance, the White Waterfall is listed as a dog-friendly natural monument, making it a great spot to visit with your canine companion.
Absolutely. The region is renowned for its challenging routes, particularly for cyclists. The Ascent to the Col de la Machine is a prime example, featuring a raised balcony road under limestone overhangs and tunnels, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience. Many of the nearby MTB and running trails also have a 'difficult' grading, as seen in the MTB Trails around Presles guide.
For a more relaxed experience, consider the Quiet route in the upper Vernaison Valley. This road runs on the west side of the high valley of the Vernaison river, offering beautiful views of the regional nature park's mountain range with little traffic, especially in its northern section.
The best way to experience the dramatic mountain roads, such as the Cirque of Combe Laval and the Ascent to the Col de la Machine, is by road cycling. These routes are specifically highlighted for their exceptional views and the unique experience of traversing roads carved into cliffs and through tunnels. Be prepared for challenging sections and breathtaking landscapes.
Yes, the area around Presles offers excellent mountain biking opportunities. You can find a variety of trails, including challenging routes like the 'Grande Goulandière loop from Presles' or the 'View of Cirque de Combe Laval – Combe Laval loop from Pont-en-Royans'. More details are available in the MTB Trails around Presles guide.
From mountain passes like the Col de la Machine, you can expect truly breathtaking views. The road itself is a raised balcony under limestone overhangs, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Vercors landscapes. It's an absolute must for anyone who appreciates dramatic natural scenery.


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