Gorges de la Bourne: A Masterpiece of Nature and Engineering
Discover the dramatic beauty of the Gorges de la Bourne, a stunning canyon in the French Alps with a road carved into the cliffs.
The Gorges de la Bourne is a breathtaking canyon in the French Alps, carved by the Bourne River. A scenic road, D531, runs through it, offering stunning views and access to natural wonders like the Choranche caves. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
A brief summary to Gorges de la Bourne
- D531, Villard-de-Lans, 38250, FR
Local tips
- Drive carefully, as the road through the gorges can be narrow and winding with limited visibility in some sections.
- Stop at the Grottes de Choranche to see the unique 'spaghetti' stalactites and the underground lake.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the cliffs, the river, and the surrounding mountains.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Consider visiting during the off-season to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist times.
Getting There
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Car
From Villard-de-Lans, head southeast on Avenue du Général de Gaulle toward Rue des Aiguillettes. Continue straight onto D531. Follow D531 for approximately 10 kilometers. You will see signs for Gorges de la Bourne. There is parking available near the gorges, but it can fill up quickly during peak season, so arrive early. Parking costs are generally free.
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Public Transport
From Villard-de-Lans, take the bus to the nearby village of Pont-en-Royans. The bus service operates several times a day, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Check the bus schedule ahead of time for return trips, as they may vary. Once you arrive in Pont-en-Royans, you can either walk approximately 1.5 kilometers to Gorges de la Bourne along D531 or look for local taxi services to take you directly to the gorges. Bus fare is approximately €3-5.
Discover more about Gorges de la Bourne
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