Montagne de Desse from Marignac-en-Diois

Park just before the entrance to Marignac-en-Diois, at the carpool car park.

(S/E) Set off between the buildings, walk along the field, then enter the edge of the woods to reach the road below.

(1) Follow this road to the right, then turn left towards the Marignac stream.

(2) Cross the small bridge over the stream, then take the farm track on the left, which leads to a fork.

(3) Turn right onto the path that climbs towards the Col de Ponet and Marignac. The path is stony, with views of the But Saint-Genix and the Glandasse.

(4) At the pass, take the path on the left. A rocky passage leads to the ridge, exposed to the south wind and the sun. From up there, you have a beautiful view of the village of Ponet-Saint-Auban below and the Trois Becs to the west.Continue along the ridge to Pas Guérin.

(5) Turn left. The descent is initially through woods and becomes steeper opposite Marignac. It then continues in open country, with a beautiful view of the But Saint-Genix and the foothills of the Vercors (Col de Vassieux, But de l'Aiglette). You will come out at the fork in the road on the way out.

(3) Turn right and, following the same route as on the way there, return to the Marignac-en-Diois carpool car park (S/E).

A route to be avoided during periods of high heat, as the ridge is very exposed.

Also avoid if you are afraid of heights, as the edge is never far away on the ridge.