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Combe Laval: A Cliffside Masterpiece

Experience the thrill of Combe Laval: a vertiginous road carved into the French Alps, offering stunning views and a unique driving adventure.

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Combe Laval is a scenic road carved into the cliffs of the Vercors Massif in France, offering breathtaking views and a thrilling driving experience. Originally built for timber transport, it's now a popular tourist destination known for its dramatic landscapes and unique construction.

A brief summary to Combe Laval

  • D76, Saint-Jean-en-Royans, 26190, FR

Local tips

  • Drive carefully, as the road is narrow and winding with steep drop-offs in some areas.
  • Check weather conditions before visiting, as the road may be closed during harsh weather.
  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views.
  • Bring warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can be cool in the mountains.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Combe Laval by car, head towards Saint-Jean-en-Royans. From the center of town, follow the D76 road, which leads directly to the Combe Laval scenic route. Be prepared for narrow, winding roads as you approach the area. Parking is available at designated spots along the route. There are no tolls.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Combe Laval via public transport, take a train to Valence. From Valence, take bus Line 20 to Saint-Jean-en-Royans, which operates several times a day. From Saint-Jean-en-Royans, it's approximately a 2-kilometer walk to reach the D76 road leading to Combe Laval. Bus ticket prices typically range from €2-€5.

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Discover more about Combe Laval

Combe Laval is more than just a road; it's an experience etched into the heart of the Vercors Regional Natural Park in France. This spectacular route, D76, is carved into the side of towering limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Royans valley. The road stretches for approximately 29.9 kilometers (18.57 miles) from Saint-Jean-en-Royans to Vassieux-en-Vercors, with the most dramatic cliffside section spanning about 6 kilometers (4 miles). Originally constructed between 1861 and 1898, the Combe Laval road was designed to transport timber from the Forêt de Lente. The engineers of the time ingeniously carved the road directly into the existing rock face, creating a route that is both daring and awe-inspiring. Today, it stands as a testament to human ingenuity and a major tourist attraction. Driving or cycling along Combe Laval is an unforgettable experience. The road features a series of tunnels and overhanging passages that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In certain sections, the road is narrow, and caution is advised, especially for those uncomfortable with heights. However, the views are well worth the journey, with numerous spots to stop and admire the scenery. The road leads to the Cirque of Combe Laval, a natural amphitheater with a depth of 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), offering a dramatic and unforgettable vista. At the highest point of the road, near the Col de la Machine, visitors can find a hotel-restaurant, providing a perfect spot to rest and take in the panoramic views. The area is also popular for hiking, with trails offering different perspectives of the gorge and surrounding mountains.

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