a journey where nature meets history

Between dizzying cliffs and crystal clear waters, the Gorges de la Bourne and its legendary road invite you on a spectacular journey to the heart of the Vercors. This natural jewel, sculpted by millennia of erosion, offers much more than a simple passage between Saint-Marcellin and Villard-de-Lans: it is a destination where every turn tells a story, where every stop promises a discovery.

Bourne River which winds between the cliffs of VercorsLaurène Philippot Web Escapades

a legendary road with a thousand facets

Once you have crossed the Pont Picard in Pont-en-Royans: the adventure of the Gorges de la Bourne begins. The road then plunges into the gorges, already offering an adventure in itself. You wind for more than 24 kilometers between rock walls that can reach 300 meters in height.

At each turn, you discover a new scene: here a monumental cliff, there a majestic waterfall, while the Bourne winds below, a faithful traveling companion.

Halfway along, the peaceful village of Choranche and its many caving and hiking activities are revealed to you, as is the viewpoint over the Moulin Marquis waterfall. After the bend leading to the Grotte de Choranche and Cabane Café, the road narrows before gradually rising towards the plateau and its mountain pastures, reaching Villard-de-Lans.

a story sculpted by time

This sublime 24-kilometre-long Vercors road, linking Pont-en-Royans to Villard-de-Lans, is a true masterpiece carved into the cliff. Its history? Eleven years of titanic work, carried out by Jean Serratrice and his men suspended in the void, leading to its opening in 1872.

Even today, this road is a testament to human genius in the face of the power of nature. Subject to the vagaries of the climate and constant erosion, it requires constant attention to maintain this vital link between the plain and the mountain.

the essential stops

The Gorges de la Bourne also offer a multitude of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and beautiful spots to delight the eyes. Here are some of the experiences not to be missed:

Pont-en-Royans

We no longer present this iconic village of the territory with its hanging houses and its bucolic leisure area at the water's edge. It is worth stopping there:

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Millières area

In the peaceful village of Choranche, if you have taken your snack, you will enjoy a picnic and a little nap here with the lapping of the river and the imposing silhouette of the cliffs in the background!

Moulin-Marquis Waterfall

An unmissable stop to admire this impressive waterfall, approximately 400 metres high, with the immense Bournillon porch standing proudly at its foot, in the heart of the cirque of the same name.

Lake Gournier

Choranche is especially famous for its caves. And among them, that of Gournier with its underground emerald lake (very cold all year round, you will not be able to swim there) that can be explored accompanied by speleologists.

  • Panoramic view of Pont-en-Royans village and its hanging housesJustine Peilley
  • Family bathing in La Bourne in ChrorancheRoseline Izquierdo
  • view of the Moulin Marquis waterfall from the Gorges de la Bourne roadItinera Magica
  • Young man in front of the Gournier underground lake at the foot of the Presles Cliffs in the VercorsLaurie Fernandes
the gorges of the bourne in all seasons in the Vercors Isère

visits to try along the way

The Gorges de la Bourne are not just a natural spectacle: they are home to a rich heritage to be discovered with its passionate artisans and inhabitants.

the hike to discover the gorges of the bourne differently

To truly appreciate the power of the Bourne Gorges, the "Along the Bourne" trail is a unique experience. This 32-kilometer route connects Saint-Nazaire-en-Royans to Rencurel, taking two to three days to hike. The well-maintained and safe trail features unique amenities such as the Arbois viewpoint overlooking the Bourne Gorges and the Himalayan-style footbridge at Auberives-en-Royans spanning the river. It also offers breathtaking views of the Vercors mountains, revealing a diverse landscape impossible to see from the road.

take the opportunity to taste the local specialties

Yum! It makes you hungry to travel through the Gorges de la Bourne. And that's good, there are many restaurants along the road that offer local cuisine! Each table allows you to savor the authenticity of the region while enjoying the magnificent landscapes. A delight for the taste buds and a feast for the eyes!

prepare your stay well

Campers next to their tent at the Gouffre de la Croix in Chatelus in the VercorsPatrick Milan

to spend the night

Many accommodations welcome you along the Gorges de la Bourne. Charming cottages, friendly guest houses, campsites in the heart of nature, hotels in the heart of the village...
There are many options available to you that will allow you to best discover this natural site if you choose to stay in the villages of Pont-en-Royans, Châtelus, Choranche or La Balme-de-Rencurel.

All lodging options

Our practical advice

The Gorges de la Bourne, a fragile natural site, offers a unique spectacle in every season, but they require some precautions. This mountain road cut into the cliff requires careful driving all year round: adapt your speed and anticipate tight bends, be vigilant in case of rain or ice. Sensitive to climatic hazards and erosion, the site may require safety work leading to temporary closures. Before your visit, check the road conditions below:

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view of the gorges of the bourne