Self-guided · French Prealps
A limestone fortress
in the sky.
Circumnavigate the extraordinary Vercors massif, where white limestone cliffs rise like a wall from the surrounding plains to protect a hidden world of high pastures, deep gorges, and Alpine views.
- Days
- 7
- Distance
- 86 km
- Ascent
- 3,685 m
- Grade
- Moderate to challenging
Trip Essentials
The walk
France's largest
Natural Park.
Perched between the Drôme and Isère, the Vercors is a true fortress of the sky. This massive limestone plateau is defined by its vertical cliffs, deep canyons, and vast forests of fir and spruce. It is the largest Regional Natural Park in France and a sanctuary for both wildlife and history, famously serving as a stronghold for the French Resistance during WWII.
This seven-day circuit leads you through the best of the 'Northern Vercors'. Starting and ending in the village of Lans-en-Vercors, you'll cross the high pastures of Molière with views across to Mont Blanc, descend into the mysterious gorges of the Bourne, and explore the 'suspended' houses of Pont-en-Royans. The paths follow ridges and ancient passes ('pas') cut into the limestone walls, offering constant panoramas of the surrounding Alps.
The 'comfort' version of this tour means you'll stay in hand-picked two and three-star hotels, several of which feature swimming pools to soothe your legs at the end of the day. With luggage transfers included, you can focus on the dramatic scenery and the remarkable flora of this unique island in the sky.
The route, day by day.
A fixed self-guided package: every stage, every night's accommodation and every luggage transfer is arranged before you set off.
- 01
Arrival in Lans-en-Vercors
Arrival dayArrive in the traditional mountain village of Lans-en-Vercors in the afternoon. Settle into your 3* hotel, enjoy the swimming pool, and prepare for the week ahead in the heart of the Prealps. Dinner included.
- 02
Lans-en-Vercors → Autrans
6 h · +705 m / −675 m · 16 kmClimb to the crests of the Northern Vercors via the Pas de Bellecombe and Pas de l'Ours. Crossing the Molière pasture, you're treated to a 360-degree panorama of seven mountain ranges, including the unmistakable white dome of Mont Blanc. Descend through small hamlets to the village of Autrans.
- 03
Autrans → Rencurel
5 h · +400 m / −680 m · 12 kmFollow the GR trail through the 'footsteps of Pertuzon'. The path leads through pleasant forests and open country to the quiet, secluded village of Rencurel. A relaxing day that lets you soak in the limestone scenery.
- 04
Rencurel → Pont-en-Royans
5.75 h · +370 m / −950 m · 16 kmA day of exceptional water and rock. Follow the path along the Bourne river to the Choranche caves, a natural circus of white cliffs. Continue to Pont-en-Royans, famous for its historic houses that hang directly over the river. Night in a 3* hotel.
- 05
Pont-en-Royans → La Chapelle-en-Vercors
5.5 - 6 h · +700 m / −480 m · 15 kmA short transfer to Baraques-en-Vercors starts the day. Hike across the Central Vercors via the Révoulat viewpoint, where the true scale of the massif's gorges and cliffs is revealed. End the day in the village of La Chapelle-en-Vercors.
- 06
La Chapelle-en-Vercors → Bois Barbu
6 h · +890 m / −510 m · 15 kmTransfer to Saint-Martin-en-Vercors. Climb to the Pas de St Martin and cross the Herbouilly plain. You'll pass the poignant ruins of Valchevrière, a village lost during the war, before reaching the high forests of Bois Barbu above Villard-de-Lans.
- 07
Bois Barbu → Lans-en-Vercors
5 h · +620 m / −785 m · 12 kmA final high-level balcony walk. Transfer to La Conversaria, then climb to the Col de l'Arc for a magnificent final view of the Belledonne and Oisans ranges. Descend through the Machiret meadows to complete your circuit in Lans-en-Vercors.
Where you'll stay
A good bed at the end of every day.
Premium comfort throughout. You'll stay in a mix of 2* and 3* hotels in double rooms. Several of these feature swimming pools (perfect for a post-walk dip), and all are chosen for their local character and high-quality regional cuisine.
Getting there
The easiest access is via Grenoble. From Grenoble SNCF station (accessible via TGV from Paris), take the regular T64 or T65 Transisère bus directly to Lans-en-Vercors. The bus station is located right next to the train station.
What's included?
A fixed self-guided package — accommodation, luggage transfer and route notes all taken care of before you arrive.
Six nights in hand-picked 2* and 3* hotels
Half-board (breakfasts and dinners included every day)
Daily luggage transfers between accommodations
Digital roadbook with detailed route notes and maps
Tourist taxes and organization fees
Expert support and planning from our local partners
Not included
- Picnic lunches (can be ordered at hotels or bought in villages)
- Return travel to the start/end point in Lans-en-Vercors
- Personal expenses, drinks, and souvenirs
- Paper roadbook (available as an optional extra)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Guiding — this is a self-guided tour
Book your Vercors Tour — 7 days (comfort) adventure.
- Free cancellation to 60 days
- Confirmation within 24 hrs
- ABTOT financially protected
We'll start planning your trip right away. Not happy with anything? We'll adjust it or refund you — no questions asked.
The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Big Trail Adventures (member 5690). Protection is provided for non-flight packages. Full details in our booking conditions.
Things walkers ask us.
What is the terrain like?
The Vercors is a limestone plateau, so expect mountain trails with some rocky sections but no technical difficulties. The stages are reasonably long, but the paths are well-maintained. You'll walk through high pastures, thick forests, and along balcony paths with steep drops (safely fenced or wide enough for comfort).
How difficult is this tour?
We rate this a Level 3/4. You should be in good physical condition and used to walking 5 to 7 hours a day with up to 1,000m of ascent. Regular hiking, cycling, or running in the months before your trip will ensure you enjoy the scenery rather than focusing on your feet!
Is there a single supplement?
Yes, this tour is designed for a minimum of two people. If you wish to travel solo, a single supplement applies (subject to availability) and the base price will be higher. Please enquire for a specific quote.
When should I go?
The season runs from mid-May to mid-September. June and early July offer the best wildflowers, while September provides cooler walking temperatures and stable weather. Peak summer (August) can be warm but the altitude keeps the air fresh.
What about the luggage transfer?
Luggage transfer is included in the 'comfort' package. You only need to carry a daypack with your water, lunch, and layers for the day. Your main bag will be waiting for you at your hotel each evening.