Combe Laval Scenic Drive

Explore the beauty of Combe Laval Scenic Drive, a 41 km road trip through the mountains of southeastern France! Starting in Pont en Royans and ending in Vassieux en Vercors, this drive offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The best time to take this road trip is during the spring or summer months, when the landscape is in full bloom. Along the way, you’ll find well-maintained roads, curvy roads, and narrow roads, all providing an exciting and memorable experience. Be aware that the road may be closed due to bad weather conditions, especially in the winter months. Despite this, this road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be done on a moderate budget. The Combe Laval Scenic Drive is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience!

Pont en Royans is a beautiful commune in the south-eastern part of France, situated on the right bank of the River Drac. It is an ideal starting point for the Combe Laval Scenic Drive, a spectacular road trip that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes of the country. The commune is home to a number of fascinating sights, making it the perfect place to begin any road trip. The old stone bridge, dating back to the 16th century, is particularly impressive. The village is also home to the 11th century Saint Pierre Church, which is well worth a visit. There is also a picturesque castle, perched on the side of the river, that provides stunning views of the surrounding area. If you are traveling to Pont en Royans by air, the nearest international airport is Grenoble-Isère Airport (GNB), located just 40 miles away. There are car rentals available at the airport, making it easy to pick up a car and begin your road trip. For anyone looking to begin an adventure through the stunning French countryside, Pont en Royans is the perfect starting point. With its impressive sights and easy access to car rentals, it is the ideal place to begin your Combe Laval Scenic Drive.

Embark on a road trip that starts in Pont en Royans, France and ends in Vassieux en Vercors. This route is only 41km long and you should be able to complete it in less than an hour. Along the way, you will be treated to spectacular scenery, with some sections of the road being inaccessible to cars with camper trailers. Please note that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, with steep ramps and narrow roads in some sections. The road is also very winding, so please drive carefully. Make sure to take in the views and take some pictures as you journey along this spectacular route. There are several interesting places to visit along the route, including the Pont en Royans viaduct, the Col du Rousset, the Vercors National Park, and the Vassieux-en-Vercors village. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Vassieux en Vercors is a charming village located in the Southern French Alps, and is the perfect ending point for the "Combe Laval Scenic Drive" road trip. Not only is it breathtakingly beautiful, but it is full of interesting sites and activities. The village itself is a great place to explore, with its many historic buildings and quaint cobblestone streets. The main attraction is the Vercors Regional Natural Park, where visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and take part in outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. For a more cultural experience, the village is home to the Museum of Resistance and Deportation, which has been in operation since the 1950s and is dedicated to preserving and educating about the history of the region during World War II. Vassieux en Vercors is also known for its excellent cuisine, with many restaurants offering traditional dishes made with fresh local ingredients. After a day of exploring the village and the surrounding mountains, visitors can treat themselves to a delicious meal and some of the region's famous wines. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Grenoble–Isère Airport (GNB), which is about an hour away from Vassieux en Vercors. At the end of the "Combe Laval Scenic Drive" road trip, Vassieux en Vercors is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the French Alps. From exploring the village to taking part in outdoor activities in the natural park, there is something for everyone in this charming village.

Before you set off

The Combe Laval Scenic Drive offers a captivating 41 km journey through the Vercors Regional Natural Park in southeastern France, starting from the charming village of Pont en Royans and concluding in the historical plateau of Vassieux en Vercors. This route is famous for its engineering marvels and the exceptional panoramic views of deep valleys and towering limestone cliffs.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

As Roadtrippers traverse the French Prealps, they can admire the rugged beauty of the Vercors Massif with key sights including the dramatic Combe Laval balcony Road, carved into the cliff face, and the verdant expanses of forest. The Road itself is a testament to human ingenuity, offering hairpin turns and narrow passages that are sure to delight driving aficionados and cyclists alike.

Best Time to Go:

The best times to embark on this Scenic Drive are from late spring to early fall, when the alpine flora is in full bloom, wildlife is active, and the weather conditions are most favorable for travel. The clear skies in this period enhance the visibility of the awe-inspiring landscapes.

Potential Risks:

Travelers should be aware of potential weather-related risks, including Road closures due to snow or landslides. The winter months see the region blanketed in snow, making some Roads impassable. Always check local weather forecasts and Road conditions before starting the journey.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

Combe Laval was originally created in the early 20th century to transport timber from the forests of Vercors. Now it is a testament to the area's history and serves as an exhilarating route for visitors. Along the drive, there are several spots to pull over and soak in the vistas or partake in a picnic with a magnificent view.

A good choice for:

The Combe Laval Scenic Drive is not just a Road; it's a destination that promises an extraordinary adventure for nature lovers, photographers, and thrill-seakers. The route, with its incredible vistas and unique driving experience, encapsulates the spirit of exploration and the grandeur of the French Alps.