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The Suspended Houses of Pont-en-Royans

Discover Pont-en-Royans: A charming village in France with colorful, gravity-defying houses hanging over the Bourne River, a unique architectural marvel.

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Pont-en-Royans is a captivating village famous for its colorful, gravity-defying houses that cling to the cliffs above the Bourne River. Built in the 16th century, these unique homes maximize space in a narrow plateau and create a striking architectural landscape.

A brief summary to Pont en Royans

  • 2 Pl. de Bassiano, Pont-en-Royans, 38680, FR

Local tips

  • Explore the narrow, winding streets and discover medieval buildings from the 16th century.
  • Visit the Water Museum to learn about the importance of water and see a collection of over 1,500 water bottles.
  • Take a walk to the old feudal tower of Les Trois Châteaux for a panoramic view of Royans.
  • Drive through the Gorges de la Bourne, one of the most scenic routes in the Vercors.
  • Visit the Jardins des Carmes, a picturesque natural area laid out in medieval style.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Pont-en-Royans, the suspended houses are easily accessible on foot. Start at Place de Bassiano and walk along the Bourne River. The houses are visible from the bridge (Pont Picard) offering a great vantage point. Continue along the riverbanks to admire the architecture up close. There are no costs associated with walking around the village.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus (T60), disembark at the 'Pont-en-Royans, Stade' stop. From there, it's approximately a 10-minute walk (738 meters) to the center of the village and the suspended houses. Follow the main road towards the river. A single bus fare costs around €2. No additional costs are expected.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, parking is available near the town hall and at the southern exit of Pont-en-Royans along the banks of the Bourne. Parking Autocars Gratuit, located at 38680 Pont-en-Royans, offers free parking. Parking Impasse du Vivier is another option. Parking is also available at Place de la Corbeille. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €2-€5 per hour. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Pont en Royans

Pont-en-Royans, nestled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a picturesque village celebrated for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The village is most famous for its suspended houses that line the cliffs along the Bourne River. These colorful, ochre, yellow, and pink houses, built in the 16th century, appear to defy gravity as they cling to the rock face. These houses were intentionally built over the precipice to maximize the limited space on the plateau, which was essential for the bustling wood trade. The Vercors mountains were rich in timber, and the Bourne River was used to transport logs. Pont-en-Royans became a strategic location for this trade, with the bridge spanning the river serving as a crucial link between the mountains and the plains. Today, Pont-en-Royans is a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world who come to witness this audaciously pendulous architecture. The village's charm extends beyond the suspended houses, with its ramparts, narrow streets, and the remains of a 13th-century fortified castle. The Water Museum (Musée de l'Eau) is another must-see attraction, showcasing the importance of water through interactive exhibits and a collection of over 1,500 bottles of water from around the world. Pont-en-Royans is also the gateway to the Gorges de la Bourne, one of the most spectacular routes in the Vercors. This road, carved into the rock face, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Vercors Regional Natural Park, a protected area of forested mountains, provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, skiing and spelunking.

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