What are the 5 most beautiful villages in the Vercors?

The Vercors, located between the Alps and the Rhône Valley, is a region that attracts many visitors thanks to its grandiose landscapes, exceptional flora and fauna, and of course, its picturesque villages. Let’s take a look at five of the most beautiful villages in the Vercors, enchanted by their charm and history.

1. Pont-en-Royans, a medieval village with unique architecture

Pont-en-Royans is a medieval village in the heart of the Vercors, on the banks of the River Bourne. The village is famous for its unique architecture, characterised by hanging houses with colourful facades built on stilts. Dating back to the 16th century, these houses bear witness to Pont-en-Royans’ rich historical past, making this village a must-see when visiting the Vercors.

Take a stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets and you’ll come across a number of curiosities, including the Serruriers fountain, the Coche bridge and the Porte de la Ville. And don’t miss a visit to the Musée de l’Eau, which traces the history of water and its use in the region. Finally, for nature lovers, the nearby Bourne gorges offer magnificent panoramic views and plenty of opportunities for hiking.

2. Saint-Antoine-l’Abbaye, a historic gem nestling in the heart of the Vercors mountains

Saint-Antoine-l’Abbaye is a charming village in the Vercors, classified as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’. Its exceptional historical heritage makes it a must-see when visiting the region. The village is dominated by the imposing medieval abbey of Saint-Antoine, founded in the 11th century and now home to a museum of sacred art and a cultural centre.

Take a stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the magnificent stone mansions, half-timbered houses and charming flower-filled squares. Be sure to visit the church of Saint-Antoine, a masterpiece of Gothic art, and the medieval garden, a haven of peace where medicinal and aromatic plants are grown. For hiking enthusiasts, the Mont Pilat trail offers superb panoramic views of the Vercors and the Alps.

3. Cognin-les-Gorges, a typical Dauphiné village

Situated in the Isère valley, Cognin-les-Gorges is a typical Dauphiné village whose origins date back to Roman times. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and crossed by the Isère river, the village offers an exceptional natural setting and numerous hiking opportunities.

Take a stroll through the narrow, winding streets and admire the beautiful stone houses, wash-houses and fountains that bear witness to the village’s historic past. Don’t miss out on a visit to the 12th-century Romanesque church of Saint-Pierre, home to magnificent frescoes and a remarkable statue of the Virgin and Child. For thrill-seekers, the nearby gorges de l’Isère climbing area offers a wide range of routes to suit all levels of climber.

4. La Sône, a picturesque village on the banks of the Isère

La Sône is a charming little village on the banks of the Isère, in the heart of the Vercors. Its unspoilt natural setting, narrow streets and stone houses give it an undeniable charm. La Sône is also famous for its castle, which dates back to the 14th century and majestically dominates the village.

The Château de La Sône, now a museum, houses a collection of works of art and historical artefacts that bear witness to the cultural richness of the region. As you stroll through the village, be sure to visit the church of Saint-André, a 12th-century Romanesque building with a breathtaking view over the Isère valley. For keen hikers, the Pas de l’Allier footpath takes in the breathtaking scenery of the Vercors and offers panoramic views over the valley.

5. Méaudre, a mountain village with authentic charm

Méaudre is a charming mountain village situated at an altitude of 1,000 metres, in the heart of the Vercors Regional Nature Park. Surrounded by vast forests and lush green meadows, the village offers an ideal setting for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts.

The village of Méaudre boasts traditional architecture typical of the mountain villages of the Vercors, with its stone and wooden houses, lauze roofs and cobbled streets. Be sure to visit the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church, an 18th-century Baroque building, and the communal oven, a vestige of the village’s historic past. In summer, Méaudre offers a wide range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking and horse riding, while in winter, the Méaudre ski resort offers pistes to suit all levels and a Nordic area for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

In conclusion, the Vercors is a region rich in picturesque villages steeped in history. Whether you’re a lover of architecture, nature or sport, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for in one of these five magnificent villages. Don’t hesitate to discover them on your next visit to the Vercors!