October is, in our collective unconscious, one of the least sexy months of the year… It’s a bit of a misnomer, because while autumn is synonymous with the return of puddles, it’ s also the time when nature displays its most beautiful colors. Add to this a measured influx of tourists and, provided the sun comes out, you’ ve got the most beautiful weekends of the year. The following village ticks all the boxes of the winning triptych: nature, culture and heritage. It even completes the equation with a touch of mystery and majesty. In short, it’s sure to keep you on your toes again this autumn.
Pont-en-Royans, the pearl of Vercors
Here’s a place like no other. That’s the way of the world, you may say, but this one in particular is totally different. In fact, it’s the very embodiment of our formidable ability to adapt architecture to the environment. Houses on a mountainside, a winding road, a bridge of a thousand and one legends… It’s as if you were in a setting from The Lord of the Rings. It’s not even surprising to come across Gandalf on his white horse on his way to buy bread.
Pont-en-Royans has always been the gateway to the Vercors. Its name derives from the famous bridge that has always enabled people to travel and trade. As a result, the commune has a rich and captivating history. The architecture of the area is perhaps the best way to appreciate this: the suspended houses overlooking the Bourne river, the mill, the narrow cobbled streets and the feudal tower of the “Trois Châteaux”. Everything is designed to plunge you into a different time and place.
Take advantage of your visit to the Musée de l’Eau (Water Museum) to learn a whole host of fascinating things. And don’t forget to make a gourmet stop at one of the restaurants (check opening times in mid-season). Le Phoenix Pontois, La Fring’Halle or MKM Food: you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Some of the most beautiful roads in France
“I’ve been seen in the Vercors… bungee jumping.”This is how Bashung begins one of his most beautiful songs (La Nuit je mens). Without going so far as to bungee-jump, the Vercors allows you to be literally glued to the scenery while remaining in the cockpit of your car. And just as well, since one of the most beautiful of these links Pont-en-Royans to Villard-de-Lans via the famous Gorges de la Bourne.
In all, over 24 km of road cling to the cliffs and overlook this gorge of ageless erosion. If you’re not afraid of the cold, take the Route des Presles to the Col de Toutes Aures for a breathtaking view of the Vercors massif…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTAXAjkVhxs