GTV on foot - Font d'Urle - Omblèze

This stage of the Grand Tour of the Vercors crosses the Ambel plateau, one of the most remarkable natural areas in the Drôme Vercors. Between alpine meadows, forests and cliffs, the landscape offers an impression of space and freedom characteristic of this preserved territory.

The Ambel plateau is also a major center for pastoralism. Every summer, horses, cows, and sheep move to these alpine pastures for the summer grazing season, perpetuating a centuries-old tradition that shapes the open landscapes admired by hikers. This activity helps maintain the ecological richness of the area.

But Ambel also bears the memory of the events of the Second World War. Due to its isolation and vast open spaces, the plateau served as a refuge and transit zone for the Vercors resistance fighters. The various mountain passes that mark the route constituted strategic crossing points.

This stage can be split into two days to fully enjoy the plateau and the unguarded mountain huts located there. During the summer grazing season, you are likely to encounter herds of cattle or sheep. Be sure to close any gates after passing through, respect the shepherd's hut, and give the herds a wide berth so as not to disturb the livestock guardian dogs.