Top 20 Natural Monuments around Malleval-En-Vercors

The region around Malleval-en-Vercors, nestled within the Vercors Massif, offers a diverse range of natural monuments. You can explore deep gorges like the Gorges du Nan and Gorges de la Bourne, impressive natural arches such as the Porte du Diable and La Lunette de Malleval, and unique geological formations including caves and waterfalls at Choranche. The area is also rich in forests and expansive protected landscapes within the Vercors Regional Natural Park.

Yes, several natural monuments are accessible for families. The approach walk to the Porte du Diable is shaded and considered accessible even with children aged 5-6, though the passage under the arch itself is steep. For a different experience, the Choranche site, with its caves and waterfall, can be an engaging visit for families.

For breathtaking scenery, the Gorges de la Bourne offers impressive views along its route. The Gorges du Nan also provides great views, especially from its cantilevered road. Additionally, La Lunette de Malleval, a natural arch, is known for its panoramic vistas over the surrounding landscape.

Absolutely. The region is excellent for hiking. For example, the Cirque de Malleval serves as a popular starting point for numerous hikes. You can find various hiking routes around Malleval-en-Vercors, including trails that lead through the Gorges du Nan. Explore more options on the Hiking around Malleval-en-Vercors guide.

The Gorges du Nan is a designated Sensitive Natural Area, notable for its impressive cliffs carved by the Nan river, revealing distinct geological strata. It features a unique cantilevered road with three tunnels that requires no lighting. Beyond its geological significance, it boasts diverse flora like the elegant doradilla fern and juniper thurifera, and fauna such as the peregrine falcon. It connects Cognin-les-Gorges to Malleval-en-Vercors and leads to the Malleval cirque.

Yes, the Vercors Massif offers excellent road cycling opportunities. Routes like the 'Gorges du Nan – Pont-en-Royans loop from Cognin-les-Gorges' allow you to experience the stunning landscapes by bike. You can find more detailed routes and information on the Road Cycling Routes around Malleval-en-Vercors guide.

Malleval-en-Vercors is situated within the expansive Vercors Regional Natural Park, a protected area renowned for its diverse landscapes including cliffs, viewpoints, forests, and alpine pastures. The park is home to the 'Réserve des Hauts Plateaux,' the largest nature reserve in metropolitan France, known for its exceptional biodiversity where Alpine and Mediterranean species coexist. Exploring the park offers a chance to see marmots, ibex, and golden eagles.

The Porte du Diable is a superb natural arch. It is possible to pass under it, but be aware that the passage itself is quite steep. The approach walk is generally shaded and accessible, even for families with children aged 5-6. Suitable footwear is recommended for this short hike.

Choranche is a site featuring a gorge, waterfall, and caves, including the Gournier cave with its underground lake. Portions of the cave are open for guided tours, and it's also a starting point for caving excursions. You can refill water and find a shop near the Gournier cave entrance. The climb up to Choranche offers nice views.

Yes, The Cyclone forest is a natural monument with a unique history. In 1915, a hurricane devastated this sector, uprooting and tangling trees. The area was left to regenerate naturally until 1939, offering a glimpse into nature's resilience and historical events shaped by the environment.

Within the Vercors Regional Natural Park, which encompasses Malleval-en-Vercors, you can encounter diverse fauna. The 'Réserve des Hauts Plateaux' is particularly known for its biodiversity, where Alpine and Mediterranean species thrive. Visitors might spot marmots, ibex, and golden eagles, among other wildlife.

Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning scenery and the sense of untouched wilderness. The Gorges du Nan is often highlighted for its beautiful road and great views with little traffic. The Gorges de la Bourne also receives praise for its impressive vistas. The opportunity to pass under natural arches like the Porte du Diable is also a memorable experience for many.