The Vercors massif has unique natural spaces and is home to many typical villages that are among the most beautiful in the country. These villages alone represent an undeniable tourist asset for this territory. We present to you a selection of the most beautiful villages in the Vercors.
Pont-en-Royans, medieval village with unique architecture
The small village of Pont-en-Royans is a gateway to the Vercors Regional Natural Park. Located at the start of the Gorges de la Bourne, on the banks of the Royans river, this medieval village is characterized by a unique architecture: hanging houses with colorful facades which were classified as Historic Monuments in 1944. Pont-en-Royans is also famous for its picturesque bridges, mountainside houses and narrow streets. In order to benefit from a beautiful panorama, you can climb to the old feudal tower of the "Three Castles". Visitors to Pont-en-Royans can enjoy mountain biking and hiking in the Vercors region as well as canoeing and kayaking on the river.
Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, a small picturesque village in the Vercors
Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye located in the department of Isère is part of the regional natural park of Vercors and is labeled "Most beautiful villages in France". Listed as a Historic Monument since 1840, the village delights heritage lovers with its old half-timbered houses, its medieval market hall and its abbey built in 1297 by the order of Saint-Antoine to house the relics of Saint-Antoine. Anthony the Egyptian. Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye is surrounded by mountains and offers a magnificent view of the valley. The village is also known for its many fountains including the Fontaine des Cordeliers built in 1612. It is a destination of choice for lovers of nature and history. You can practice many activities there such as hiking, mountain biking or climbing.
Cognin-les-Gorges, typical village of Dauphiné
Located at the foot of the Vercors, Cognin-les-Gorges is a typical village of Dauphiné and a gateway to the sublime Gorges du Nan. The streets of the village are mainly made up of stone houses and nut dryers. Don't miss the village church, the beating heart of the town, and wander the narrow streets of Cognin-les-Gorges to discover the public gardens where you can stroll and relax.
La Sône, a charming little village
In the heart of Isère, in the regional natural park of Vercors, hides the village of Sône, a charming village which contains more than 2000 years of history. The village is recognized for its breathtaking landscapes, its pleasant climate as well as an important architectural heritage that testifies to a rich and glorious past. La Sône is the ideal destination if you are fond of hiking or cycling or other activities to do in the Vercors in summer.
Méaudre, charming mountain village
Méaudre is a village resort located in the northern part of the Vercors plateau at 1012 meters above sea level, on the road between Grenoble and Chamrousse. It is a mountain village full of history which has however been able to develop a real tourist offer with various accommodations (hotels, lodges, bed and breakfasts, ...), gourmet catering with local products and entertainment throughout of the year. Authentic resort with sunny slopes, forest paths, winter Méaudre offers two interconnected Nordic sites, the Village and the altitude area of Narces. You can practice various activities there such as downhill skiing, but also cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or dog sledding. Méaudre will delight lovers of wide open spaces!