Les Tonils walks

A long but superb walk covering almost the entire Montagne de Couspeau, with its breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the Vercors to the Ventoux, and from the Dévoluy to the Monts d’Ardèche. Do not hesitate to do it in the opposite direction due to the potential difficulty in finding your way through the vegetation from Serre Délégué onwards. Hiking is prohibited by the landowner (private property) during the summer grazing season, from 20 May to 31 October.

At the start of the circular route, the Soubrion river must be crossed by fording (the only authorised crossing point). However, if the water level does not allow for a safe crossing, the landowners permit use of their footbridge. Please respect this exception.

A beautiful, long hike from Col de Gourdon with a significant elevation gain.Magnificent aerial view from the Trois Becs. The trail sometimes winds through heath, sometimes through pastures and also through undergrowth. Please note that the route passes through a quiet zone for wild animals. Certain sections are closed between 15 May and 15 July. Special signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide users, seehere. 

An idyllic, very quiet walk in magnificent surroundings with 360° panoramic views of all the mountain ranges in the region. Hiking is prohibited by the landowner (private property) during the summer grazing season, from 20 May to 31 October.

A circular walk on Couspeau mountain, with the summit of the Grand Delmas offering views over the surrounding mountains, particularly the 3 Becs.

Although this circular walk can be done in either direction, in summer it is advisable to follow the route described to avoid the climb from Les Athénols to the Col de Gourdon, which is very exposed to the sun. It is possible to do just the Col de Gourdon–Fonderesse return walk via Floréal (6.6 km / +320 m / 2 hours 15 minutes). To avoid disturbing the wildlife, dogs must be kept on a lead.

This route starts in Rochefourchat and allows you to explore the Montagne de Couspeau by following the ridge that rises from the south from Serre Délégué (1,482 m) to the north, at its northern end, at Grand Delmas (highest point at 1,544 m). This hike offers views of the surrounding mountains from Diois to Baronnies, including the Trois Becs. Hiking is prohibited by the owner (private property) during the summer grazing period, from 20 May to 31 October.

A gentle walk offering a route through the countryside and a visit to the old village of Bourdeaux (La Viale).

Visit the Trois Becs, the highest points in the Saou Forest. ⚠️ The route passes through a quiet zone for wildlife. Certain passages are closed between 15 May and 15 July.Specific signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide users, see here.

At the foot of the majestic Trois Becs massif and the Montagne de Couspeau, leave the charming village of La Chaudière for the Chapelle des Sadous, perched on a wooded spur.

This is a wild hike to discover the little Chapelle des Sadous chapel through the ravines of the Vallon de la Coullance, followed by a crescendo climb to the summit of Montagne de Faraud. From the top of this spur, you can enjoy views of the Trois Becs, the Grand Delmas and the Montagne de Couspeau, the Diois, the Dévoluy, the Vercors and the Grand Veymont.

Hike opposite the Trois Becs massif, which forms the eastern slope of the Saou forest and its Perched syncline. Beautiful views of this magnificent rocky ridge.

A lovely, easy walk at the foot of the Grand-Delmas with views of the Trois Becs, the Vercors, the Dévoluy…

This wild hike allows you to discover the south-eastern ridge of the Saoû Forest, passing by the peaks of Pradou and Roche Rousse with views of the southern Drôme mountains as far as Mont Ventoux. Please note that the route passes through a quiet zone for wild animals. It is forbidden to use it between Pas de Floréal (6) and the bottom of Pré de l'Âne (8) between 15 May and 15 July.Specific signage and a diversion from the GR®9 have been put in place to guide users, seehere. 

Beautiful hike on the slopes of Couspeau, above Saint-Nazaire-le-Désert. Unobstructed view of the Roanne basin, the Servelle, the Diois and Vercors mountains.

Serre Délégué is the southernmost peak of the Montagne de Couspeau. The paths leading up to it are sometimes a little steep, but the view from the summit makes it all worthwhile. Please note that the mountain pastures of Montagne de Couspeau are off-limits to walkers from 20 May to 31 October (private property).

A variation on the classic Trois Becs circuit, which is more demanding and reserved for experienced walkers, as the Pas de la Picourère is tricky and exposed. The ascent follows the access path to the climbing routes, where peace and quiet are guaranteed. However, the Trois Becs circuit is very busy and should be avoided at weekends in summer. Please note that 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; seehere. 

A lovely walk to reach the summit of Rochecourbe (one of the 3 Becs), ascending via one of the prettiest passes (the Pas de Picourère) and returning via the magnificent Rocher de la Laveuse and the Pas de Siarra.Take care: the paths are steep and slippery, unmarked and run close to cliffs. This hike is therefore best suited to walkers accustomed to this type of terrain. Please note that 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.

Overlooking the southern Diois region, the Saoû perched syncline, with its main peaks of the Trois Becs (the Veyou, the Signal and Roche Courbe), forms a must-see and much-visited mountain range in the Drôme. However, there are still a few wilder routes featuring steep sections, which are rarely used and require sure-footedness. These routes also allow you to fully enjoy the panoramic views on offer, through the cliffs and other points of interest in this massif.Caution: the section between (6) and (7) is off-trail near rocky outcrops! Please read the route description carefully! 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 walkers; seehere. 

Hike around the Montagne du Ruy. View of the Jabron and Veyssanne valleys, as well as the Montagne de la Lance and part of the Montagne Angèle.

A demanding hike where you walk in water most of the time. The first 4 kilometres are on dry land and the rest in the beds of the Brette and Roanne rivers. A very beautiful route that allows you to discover the wild gorges of these two rivers. Please note: the walking time is calculated for routes on dry land; walking in water is much more difficult, so you should allow around 1 to 1.5 km/h, or around 8 to 9 hours of walking for this route.

Sheltered by the imposing wall of the Saoû perched syncline, you will pass close to the ruins of Pradas and also enjoy unobstructed views over the Roubion valley. ⚠️ 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 hilltop village of Le Poët-Célard offers a journey back in time as you wander through its medieval streets leading up to the castle. Then discover the local area, including the Château de Saint-André.

A short 3½-hour hike with beautiful views.

This is a short hike, mostly through wooded areas with regular openings offering beautiful views of the Dieulefit and Bourdeaux countryside. In particular, you can see the Romanesque church and the 12th-century (private) castle of Comps, the entire Saoû Forest, from Roche Colombe to Trois Becs and the Couspeau Mountain.

On the border between Baronnies and Diois, Saint-Maurice is famous for its chapel and ridges. There is a beautiful view to the north with the forest of Saoû, the Trois Becs at Roche Colombe, the Grand Delmas and the Couspeau mountain in the background, and the Lance mountain to the south.

Montagne de Faraud offers magnificent views of the Trois Becs and all the surrounding mountains. This hike offers an alternative to the classic hike, starting from the hamlet of Saint-Moirans (Chastel-Arnaud) rather than La Chaudière. At the start, you will have the opportunity to visit the 12th-century Church of Saint-Moirans and, during the hike, the charming Chapelle des Sadous chapel. The hike follows good paths or tracks, with a few slightly steep sections.

A picturesque walk, mainly along minor roads, starting from the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Truinas. The route features climbs, winding sections and, of course, descents, offering magnificent views along the way. The view of the Trois Becs and the Montagne de Couspeau accompanies you for much of the route as you pass through the village of Poët-Célard and its renovated castle, the Château de Saint-André, the Col de Vesc, the church and the Château de Comps.

Another route across the ridges of the 3 Becs, which is quieter and more unspoilt.It is possible to do this without completing the return leg (a shorter route) by descending to the Col de la Chaudière; in this case, two cars are recommended (or hitchhiking). ⚠️ 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 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.

A route taking in small roads and paths that allow you to discover the varied landscapes surrounding the village of Comps and the upper reaches of the Jabron Valley, from the Col de Ventebrun to the church at Comps via the Col de Boutière and the Col de Vesc.

A walk along small roads, tracks and paths, offering a chance to explore the varied landscapes surrounding the village of Comps, at the head of the Jabron valley, via its church and a circuit around the Montagne des Ventes.

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. 

It’s a fairly long route but not particularly difficult, allowing you to discover all aspects of the Saoû Forest, starting with the Auberge des Dauphins and its grounds...

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.

On the border between the Baronnies and the Diois, in the Drôme Provençale, the Miélandre mountain, with its grassy slopes on either side of the ridge, is covered with pastures. From the summit, which offers a 360° view, you can admire the Alpages d'Angèle, the Montagne de La Croix, the Lance mountains, the Trois Becs and Mont Ventoux.

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.

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 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.

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 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. 

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 wild route that uses tracks as little as possible and offers beautiful views of the Pays de Dieulefit, the village of Vesc and its plain, as well as the Montagne de Couspeau and La Lance.

After a well-earned climb, an exceptional panorama rewards your efforts. 360° view of the surrounding mountains from Mont Ventoux to Couspeau and Les Trois Becs.

This is an easy walk to stretch your legs while enjoying a beautiful variety of landscapes: panoramic views of the majestic syncline of the Saou Forest, dry pine forests, the cool banks of the Roubion inviting you to take a dip, and even lavender fields to finish off before crossing the pretty village of Francillon.

After swimming in the Roubion, you can finish the descent at nightfall: Vaire is a remarkable platform for stargazing, at the foot of the southern slope of the Saoû syncline. Please note: the route is impassable when the Roubion is in flood.

Like a ship, the massif rises at the foot of the Vercors and offers a panoramic view over the Drôme and Rhône valleys. In fine weather, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Alps and, on the opposite side, the Cévennes. Several moments of contemplation are needed to take in these landscapes. ⚠️ 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, which is assessed daily. A map is published every evening (around 5.30 pm) for the following day.

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.

A long climb (800m elevation gain over 13km, taking just over 2 hours) but not particularly difficult to reach the Refuge des Girards by mountain bike. From there, it is advisable to continue on foot, for example to climb the Trois Becs. The return route is technical, following the path alongside the River Vèbre.

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.

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.

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.

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.

From Saint-Benoît, a hilltop village and strategic point, climb up the paths once used by farmers through the sunny south-facing slopes. They offer breathtaking views of the Roanne Gorges.

A beautiful circular leading to a summit offering stunning views of the Vercors, Diois and Trois Becs.

This easy little loop allows you to discover the charming hamlet of Paulhiet. The route, with gentle slopes (both uphill and downhill), mainly follows wide paths and a few small, quiet roads. The route is mostly shaded, winding its way through woodland and hills. It is best to do this walk when the lavender is in bloom, as there are many lavender fields around Paulhiet.

A beautiful hike above the village of Espenel, providing access to the three peaks on the Cresta ridges.

The final stage of this trek is a bit more ‘relaxed’, though it still involves some elevation gain and offers a few lovely panoramic views, linking the village of La Paillette to the town of Dieulefit.

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.

Walk through the Clairette de Die vineyards. Views of the Trois Becs, the Glandasse, and the Drôme valley.

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.

A short walk from the village of Piégros offering lovely views of its castle, the Drôme valley and the Vercors foothills.