Top 18 Gorges around Presles

Visitors frequently enjoy the spectacular Combe Laval Cirque, known for its road carved into the rock and panoramic views. Another popular spot is the Gorges du Nan, a natural monument with a cantilevered road clinging to the rock face. The Écouges Tunnel, a man-made structure within a gorge, also draws many visitors.

The canyons around Presles, situated in the Vercors massif, are characterized by dramatic rock formations, deep river canyons, and winding routes. You'll encounter impressive limestone escarpments, rivers like the Nan flowing through gorges, and even waterfalls such as the Gournier waterfall near Choranche.

While specific 'family-friendly' tags aren't available for all canyons, scenic drives through areas like the Combe Laval Cirque offer breathtaking views that can be enjoyed by all ages from a vehicle. The Choranche area, with its famous caves and Gournier waterfall, provides an engaging experience for families, including guided tours of the cave.

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Col d'Herbouilly – Bourne Gorge loop' or the 'Col de Romeyère – Gorges du Nan loop'. For hikers, there are trails like the 'Gournier Cave – Ranc Viewpoint loop'. Running enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Serre Cocu – Col de la Croix Bernard loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the road cycling, hiking, and running guides for Presles.

The Vercors massif, where Presles is located, generally offers pleasant conditions for exploring its canyons from spring through autumn. Summer provides warm weather ideal for outdoor activities, while spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and vibrant foliage. It's always advisable to check local weather conditions before your visit, especially for activities like canyoning or hiking.

Yes, the region is notable for its historical engineering. The Combe Laval Cirque features a road opened in 1898, originally for transporting wood, now a major tourist attraction. The Écouges Tunnel is another significant man-made structure within a gorge, now well-lit for visitors. The Gorges du Nan also boasts a cantilevered road with three tunnels.

The village of Choranche, located near some of the gorges, is a good place to stop. You can easily find supplies there or refill your water. There are also shops near the entrance to the Gournier cave, which is a popular attraction in Choranche.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking scenery and panoramic views, especially along routes like the Combe Laval Cirque. The unique experience of driving or cycling on roads carved into cliff faces, such as in the Gorges du Nan, is also highly appreciated. The continuous alternation between tunnels and open-air sections provides a dynamic and memorable experience.

Some roads, like those in the Gorges du Nan, have remained in a more original state, meaning they can be narrow and sometimes without a parapet. While the Écouges Tunnel is now well-lit, it's always wise to be prepared with your own lighting, especially for older tunnels or if exploring off the main routes. Cyclists particularly enjoy the exceptional panoramas, but should be mindful of the winding nature of these roads.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the 'Col d'Herbouilly – Bourne Gorge loop from Choranche' is a popular road cycling option. Hikers can enjoy the 'Gournier Cave – Ranc Viewpoint loop from Presles'. These circular routes allow you to experience the diverse landscapes and return to your starting point. Check the road cycling and hiking guides for more detailed loop options.

The ViaVercors is a serene, traffic-free experience that weaves through areas like The Méaudret gorges. It offers routes suitable for bikes, sometimes on raised pavements and sometimes on dirt roads, running parallel to the main road and river. It's an excellent option for those looking to explore the gorges by bike with wider, gravel-oriented tires, offering plenty of picnic spots to admire the views.