Crest walks

A pleasant walk in the hills above Crest offering beautiful views of the southern Vercors, the peaks of the Saoû Forest, the Ardèche mountains and the Drôme valley. As a bonus, you can explore Crest and its heritage at the start and end of the walk.

Family walk behind the highest keep in France: you will walk along ridges and enjoy an unforgettable panorama of the Vercors mountains, the Trois Becs and the Ardèche plateau.

This discovery route is divided into three parts, with a passage along the ridges overlooking the town, offering superb panoramic views, followed by a pleasant walk along the banks of the Drôme. The circular ends with a short tourist route through the labyrinth of the old town. The highlight of this discovery of Crest is a visit to its tower, the tallest keep in France: be sure to plan a visit.

A lovely walk starting from old Divajeu and its château, with views of Grand Veymont on one side and the Ardèche on the other. An easy, very pleasant hillside path through oak and pine trees.

Short mountain bike ride on the Balcons de la Drôme between Crest and Aouste-sur-Sye. Not too difficult climb and nice little descent on single track. Ideal for a short winter outing.

A lovely autumn hike offering numerous views of the Vercors, the peaks of the Saoû forest and the Baronnies. The route crosses rural farmland, where vineyards and fields give way to forest. There is a bit of road at the start.

A post-lunch stroll around Lake Eurre, then into the Ramières du Val de Drôme Nature Reserve, where, depending on the season, you may spot migratory birds taking a break, or coypu and beavers.

A walk, partly through woodland, around Lac d’Eurre and along the Drôme, followed by a visit to the reserve’s birdwatching point.

Explore the hilltop village of Mirabel, with views of Charsac Hill and the Col de l'Armurier.

This chapel is on the ridge of the Forest of Saoû, above the ruins of an old priory. At the top of the climb from La Clastre, hikers have breathtaking views of the hanging valley of Saoû.

From the Bois de la Dame, formerly owned by the Poitiers family, to the Pierre Sanglante, on the border of three cantons, you will enjoy an unusual view of the western part of the Saoû syncline.

The massif is a perched syncline. This small mountain offers exceptional views of the Diois and southern Vercors regions. On a clear day, there is a superb view of the Grand Veymont, the 3 Becs, Roche Colombe and the syncline of the Saou forest. Chapel and viewpoint at the Croix de Saint-Pancrace.

A long walk with beautiful views, with no difficulty other than the length, on trails and paths through fairly sparse pine forests.

A short exploratory walk through the Saou Forest on the northern side of the syncline and through the woodland.Beautiful views during the ascent and, at the end of the descent, of Piegros Castle, the Drôme valley and the Vercors foothills. A stunning 360° panorama from the Chapel of Saint-Médard. ⚠️Between 1 July and 15 September,Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saou Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of afirerisk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

Discover the Ramières du Val de Drôme Nature Reserve on a flat route. The first few kilometres of the walk are accompanied by information boards about the environment.

This walk allows you to discover the remains of an ancient fortified village on a hilltop, at the top of which are three crosses and a magnificent viewpoint with an orientation table. 270° panorama of the foothills of the Vercors and Diois, Roche Colombe, the Trois Becs, the Montagne de Couspeau, the northern Rhône valley and the Ardèche mountains.

From the top of this cliff, you have a beautiful view of the Vercors, the foothills of the Ardèche, the Rhône valley and the entire Saoû forest with the Trois Becs at the other end.

On this well-shaded hike, in addition to the various views of the Rhône valley, the Ardèche, the southern Vercors, the Trois Becs and the Saoû forest, we also encountered a young deer enjoying some foliage and a squirrel frightened by our presence. Unfortunately, we also saw the damage caused by the box tree moth.

A beautiful hike that will take you through pretty woodland and the Rocher de Saint-Supière massif. Some fairly steep climbs and descents. Beautiful views of the Crêtes de Suze, Rochecolombe and Les Trois Becs.

This trail crosses a property where Scottish Highland cows graze. The trail then climbs up to the Savel Plateau, where a panoramic view opens up before you.

Roche Colombe is the stern of the great ship formed by the Saoû Forest, offering a remarkable view of the Vercors, the Drôme and the interior of the forest. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saoû Forest and the Ambel plateau in the event of a fire risk , assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

The west summit of Saou forest, which marks the beginning (or end) of this forest.

Head east to explore the tourist trail created by Maurice Burrus in 1930. The route passes at the foot of the Trois-Becs. To round off this walk, a descent along forest paths and tracks will make you forget the long climb. The Saou Forest, acquired as part of the Sensitive Natural Areas policy, is the Department’s largest property. Listed as a protected site since 1942, it is managed in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, in consultation with local stakeholders. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saou Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

A discovery trail in the heart of the Saou Forest, along easy paths and tracks suitable for the whole family. In the heart of the forest, don’t miss the Auberge des Dauphins and its remarkable architecture.The Saou Forest, acquired as part of the Sensitive Natural Areas policy, is the Department’s largest property (2,500 ha). Listed as a protected site since 1942, it is now managed in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, in consultation with local stakeholders. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saou Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

A challenging route, with a short section where you’ll need to carry your bike on the climb up to the Pas de l’Échelette. Enjoy the panoramic views of Crest, the Drôme valley and the Trois Becs! ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saoû Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

A route in the Saou forest, where you’ll follow the tourist trail before heading down the Sentier Muletier. Please note that this descent is technical; some stony sections require caution!

A beautiful route that will take you through the Saou Forest, then to the foot of Rochecolombe Mountain. The route follows fun and varied paths through the woods. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saou Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

At the foot of the Aiguilles, you will pass through a wide variety of environments. Wetlands and arid areas alternate between the Vèbre and the Mediterranean slopes of the Pas de l'Estang and the Palloir.

Climb up to the Grand and Petit Pomerolle from the Pas de Lestang, offering beautiful views of Saoû, its forest and its legendary three peaks.

Following paths and small tracks, mostly through woodland, this walk offers some beautiful views and the remains of an ancient hilltop fortified village. The top of the village, where three crosses stand, offers a magnificent viewpoint with an orientation table. There is a 270° panorama of the foothills of the Vercors and Diois, Roche Colombe, the Trois Becs, the Montagne de Couspeau, the northern Rhône valley and the Ardèche mountains.

On the foothills of the perched syncline of the Saoû forest and through vineyards, forests and ridges, this route offers beautiful views of the Trois Becs.

This walk will take you on a journey through the agricultural landscape of the Saoû Forest. The walk begins along the hay meadows at the foot of the forest. You will then pass close to the ruins of Raillon and Fuoc, remnants of the many farms that once stood at the foot of the forest. This walk is suitable for all-terrain pushchairs.Dogs must be kept on a lead. ⚠️ 1 July 2026: Between 1 July and 15 September,Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saoû Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of afirerisk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

This walk takes you along various historic routes through the Saoû Forest.You can start this circular walk from the Écogardes Office, heading towards Le Chemin de la Grande Combe, then follow the directions in the text.Dogs must be kept on a lead. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saoû Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

La Baume Cornillane is an exceptional site due to its geography and history. La Raye is a superb viewpoint: Baronnies, Vercors, Roc de Toulaud, Tête de la Dame and Plateau d'Ambel. The ridges are superb.

How about taking a trip back a few million years to find yourself at the centre of the original world (Pangaea)? La Baume-Cornillane claims this location and there are a few information panels at the top of the village explaining it in more detail. The rest of the route will take you up to the heights of Pas de la Croix, then back through the forest to the car park and back to the 21st century.

In the heart of the Diois region, the Saou Forest is home to some lovely treasures.The Saint-Médard Chapel is one of them: a viewpoint offering a unique vista of the Trois Becs. Although the path up is a bit steep, it makes for a lovely family walk. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saou Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

A very beautiful walk for regular walkers which, in good weather, will allow you to discover the ridges of the Eyzahut rocks, Saint-Maurice, Mont Ventoux, the Lance massif, the Montagne d’Angèle, the Trois Becs and the Grand Delmas. ⚠️ 1 July 2026: Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saoû Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk , assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

From the centre of the world (Pangaea) before continental drift, to the Middle Ages, via local legends about the cave that gave the village its name (Baume = cave in Provençal), this is a varied family walk starting from the charming village of La Baume-Cornillane: old stones, hidden paths, stunning landscapes, a stream and a petrifying waterfall (sometimes so petrified that it is dry!) and a remarkable cave.

A 10 km circular route, the first part of which offers a pleasant walk in the shade through the beautiful Saoû Forest, whilst the second, sunnier part offers splendid panoramic views of the perched syncline. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saoû Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

This very shady forest walk offers a new perspective on the Valdaine plain with a few glimpses of the Saoû massif, not to mention the discovery of the old ruined village of Roynac and its belvedere.

Discover the panoramic view from the east of Roynac: the Chevrière area is home to a remarkable natural site and offers a magnificent view of the Ardèche!

From the famous Plateau des Chaux, a small agricultural plain still preserved by traditional practices, you will reach the heights of the Lozeron mountain and enjoy a 260° panorama.

A hike with a significant elevation gain but no particular difficulty apart from its length; a good part of the route is shaded in case of hot weather.See Practical Information regarding the section near the cliffs.Reserved for experienced hikers. Please note: the route passes through a wildlife sanctuary. Certain sections are off-limits between 15 May and 15 July.Specific signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide users; seehere. 

A beautiful, long hike that alternates between forest, alpine meadows and ridge paths before returning through the forest.A gentle climb through the forest via the Grande Combe, which zigzags between two cliffs. Then the view opens up between the Pas de Siara and the Pas de la Laveuse, passing by the Veyou and close to the other peaks of the Trois Becs. Descent through the beech forest.The effort is richly rewarded by the variety of landscapes and superb views over the Vercors and the Saou Forest syncline. Please note: the route passes through a wildlife sanctuary. Certain sections are closed to the public between 15 May and 15 July. Special signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide walkers; seehere. 

This route offers a good introduction to this hilltop forest, its tranquillity and the birdsong. You’ll come close to the Trois Becs without actually climbing them. Just enough to make you want to come back and tackle them. ⚠️ The route passes through a wildlife sanctuary. Certain sections are off-limits between 15 May and 15 July. Specific signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide walkers; see here. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saoû forest and the Ambel plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

A short circular path through the forest, perfect for enjoying the shade. You’ll walk through a splendid beech forest on a north-facing slope.Dogs must be kept on a lead.

A lovely walk where ‘diversity’ is the watchword! This superb route, winding its way between two cliffs, takes you gradually uphill via the Grande Combe, amidst lush vegetation. The Pas de Siara offers a glimpse of the southern Alpine meadows of the Trois Becs, where sheep from neighbouring valleys graze during the summer grazing season. The descent is gentle through the beech forest, typical of the montane zone. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September,Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saoû forest and the Ambel plateau in the event of afirerisk, which is assessed daily. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

A lovely, gentle round-trip walk that will take you in the footsteps of the Huguenots through the Saoû Forest. The walk is fully accessible to all-terrain pushchairs.

Explore the south-western ridge of the famous Saou Forest. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saou Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

From the Auberge des Dauphins, a magnificent climb via the Grande Combe leads to the Rocher de la Laveuse and the Trois Becs – a legendary hike in the Saou Forest. ⚠️ The route passes through a wildlife sanctuary. Certain sections are off-limits between 15 May and 15 July. Specific signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide walkers; see here. ⚠️ Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning the temporary restriction of access to the Saou Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk, which is assessed daily. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

The heart of the Saou Forest has a very distinctive atmosphere for the region, with its dense vegetation, gorges and cliffs. You might feel as though you’re in another country. A few routes published on Visorando pass through this forest, but they all differ in terms of the return route. Here we suggest a relatively challenging route that will take you along the northern ridges and through its beautiful landscapes. Please note that the route passes through a wildlife sanctuary. Certain sections are off-limits between 15 May and 15 July. Special signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide walkers; seehere. 

A superb hike in the Saoû Forest, ideal for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts – a challenge for us as novice hikers. Despite the fairly long route, we were delighted and, above all, pleasantly surprised by the untamed beauty of the landscape and the view of the Trois Becs. ⚠️ 1 July 2026: Between 1 July and 15 September, Prefectural Order DDT-SEF-2026-0176 of 4 June 2026 concerning temporary restrictions on access to the Saoû Forest and the Ambel Plateau in the event of a fire risk , assessed on a daily basis. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.