Description

In the heart of the wild Lyonne gorges, this hike combines the coolness of the undergrowth, spectacular landscapes and the discovery of a heritage steeped in history.

This hike takes you to the heart of the wild Lyonne gorges, one of the most unspoiled areas of the Royans. After crossing the agricultural lands surrounding Bouvante, the path gradually reaches the banks of the river, in a cool and shady atmosphere dominated by limestone cliffs and mountain forests.

Over millennia, the Lyonne River has carved its bed into the rock, shaping steep-sided gorges that are among the most remarkable landscapes in the area. The water has sculpted a rugged terrain, creating a succession of ravines, cliffs, and narrow passages that contrast sharply with the vast plateaus of the Vercors.

The route skirts the hill of Plémiat, whose name is thought to derive from the combination of "pié," meaning a promontory, and "miat," from the Latin medium, meaning "in the middle." This etymology perfectly describes this isolated hill nestled between the Lyonne and Chaillard gorges.

Near the route, the remains of the Château des Flandaines also survive. Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the valleys, it was part of the defensive system of the princes of Royans before being dismantled at the end of the 16th century.

Delicate passage

The gradual ascent along the Lyonne river contains some sections which can sometimes be tricky in wet weather, caution!

Updated on 07/09/2026 - Report a change: info@vercorsdrome.com

Step-by-step itinerary

1

Starting from Bouvante-le-Bas (parking), towards Saint-Martin-le-Colonel , descend to Les Sables via the GR 9.

2

From there, go to the Couriole crossroads , pass through the place called Chaillard and reach Les Rochats.

3

Continue in the same direction, still on the GR 9, and reach the Les Rats and La Freydière intersection.

4

Then take the road towards Bouvante-le-Bas and Oriol-en-Royans , go down to L'Usine de la Plaine and then La Passerelle.

5

Then begins the gradual ascent along the Lyonne river, be careful some sections can sometimes be tricky in wet weather! At Mégretière , turn left towards Les Sables , the village of Bouvante-le-Bas is then not far away.

What comes next?