HIKING TRAILS IN DRÔME PROVENÇALE
Situated in an exceptional setting, the Les Hauts de Chirol gîte offers direct access to a number of walks in Drôme provençale. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a lover of leisurely strolls, discover a variety of itineraries starting from your accommodation or just a few minutes away by car.
Hiking on the Montagne de Couspeau
Directly accessible from the gîte, the Couspeau mountain offers hiking trails through a variety of landscapes. Breathtaking panoramic views of the Pre-Alps mountains such as the 3 Becs, not forgetting the highest point of Grand Delmas, await you. At Hauts de Chirol, there’s no need to take your car to explore nature. It’s right on your doorstep.
- The Tour de Couspeau: this not-to-be-missed walk in the Bourdeaux region takes you along the ridge of the Montagne de Couspeau. This provides a link between the Montagne d’Angèle and the Trois-Becs in the Forêt de Saoû.
This moderate level loop, lasting around 5 to 6 hours, can be found on the Visorando website or app. You’ll find all the information you need to complete this trail on the Couspeau mountain, with a view of Grand Delmas. To reach the route, simply follow the path that joins the ridge behind the gîte.
Please note that this hike is prohibited during the summer period, from 20 May to 31 October, by the owner. - The Soubeyrand pass: from the village of Les Tonils, this dozen-kilometre hike takes you over the Sabatière, Moune and Soubeyrand passes. The return journey is via Châtaigner and Saint-Sylvestre. Check out the GPS track.
Hiking in Drôme provençale, in the Dieulefit-Bourdeaux area
Just a short drive from the gîte, the Dieulefit-Bourdeaux region will delight walkers and nature lovers alike. With over 350km of waymarked footpaths, you’re sure to find something to suit you, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced walker. Choose your itinerary from the 28 ‘Walking tips’ leaflets available from the Dieulefit tourist office. The loops offer walks lasting from 1 hour 30 minutes to a full day.
- Visit the old village of Bourdeaux, La Vialle ;
- Wander through its narrow streets to the ruins of the castle ;
- Discover the Chapelle Saint-Jean in Crupies ;
- Continue on to the village of Le Poët-Laval and take the Huguenots trail ;
- In Bourdeaux, you will find 14 km of the route taken by these Protestants in exile, out of a total of 600;
- Climb up to the Trou du Furet to see this geological curiosity…
This region is a paradise for hikers. Check out the top 10 walks selected by the Drôme Provençale tourist offices. You can also hire a specialist service provider. They’ll show you the best of the local countryside, offering advice, safety and a rewarding experience.
Immerse yourself in the Saoû forest
From Bourdeaux, head towards Saoû and discover an incredible forest, a veritable showcase of biodiversity. Walks for all levels await you.
Saoû Forest covers 2,500 hectares. This natural gem in the Drôme is encircled by impressive limestone cliffs. Renowned for being the largest perched syncline in Europe, this forest captivates specialists and nature lovers alike. The diversity of the vegetation is the result of the unique exposure of its slopes. It offers a varied landscape, from dense forest to rocky, damp areas.
Once the private hunting estate of Maurice Burrus, it has been transformed into an accessible venue for green tourism. Today, owned by the Département de la Drôme, the forest is managed as an Espace Naturel Sensible to preserve its flora and fauna and facilitate public access.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, climbing or simply strolling along the carefully-marked trails.
Tools such as topoguides, nature game applications and orienteering courses are also available.
For hikers, the 12 km Tour du Synclinal is the flagship circuit. It will immerse you in an unspoilt and diverse natural environment.
Comfort after exercise
After a day’s hiking, take advantage of the guesthouse facilities to relax :
- Cool off in the swim lane pool ;
- The jacuzzi to soothe tired muscles ;
- The large terrace for some stretching.
So get your hiking boots ready and book your stay at Les Hauts de Chirol for an unforgettable adventure in Drôme provençale. Contact us for more information on hiking and activities available around our gîte.