Réserve Naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors: A Natural Masterpiece
Explore France's largest mainland nature reserve in the heart of Vercors, offering stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
The Réserve Naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors, established in 1985, is France's largest mainland nature reserve, encompassing 17,000 hectares. This protected area within the Parc Naturel Régional du Vercors offers unparalleled landscapes of alpages, forests, and cliffs, preserving a rich biodiversity.
A brief summary to Réserve naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors
- Unnamed Road,, Gresse-en-Vercors, 38650, FR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the Hauts Plateaux can change rapidly.
- Wear appropriate hiking boots and clothing, as the terrain can be rough and the weather unpredictable.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the reserve.
- Be aware of the regulations regarding fires, camping, and vehicle use, and respect the fragile environment.
- Consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chance of spotting wildlife.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
To reach the Réserve Naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors using public transport, start from Grenoble. Take a train to Monestier-de-Clermont, followed by a bus (Route 4500) to Gresse-en-Vercors. From Gresse-en-Vercors, local trails provide access to the reserve. Bus fares are typically a few euros.
-
Driving
To reach the Réserve Naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors by car, head towards Gresse-en-Vercors. From Grenoble, take the A51 autoroute south. Exit and follow local roads to Gresse-en-Vercors. Drive time from Grenoble is approximately 40 minutes. Parking is available in Gresse-en-Vercors and at trailheads, like the one at the Porte d'Herbouilly. Parking is free at Gresse-en-Vercors, with 350 spaces available. Parking at trailheads is also free.
Discover more about Réserve naturelle des Hauts Plateaux du Vercors
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Parc du Château de Vizille
31.6 km
Discover history and nature at Parc du Château de Vizille, a beautiful park surrounding a historic château near Grenoble.
Street Map
38.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture and historic charm of Grenoble through its essential Street Map, your guide to local attractions and hidden gems.
Grenoble Tour Guide
38.7 km
Explore the stunning beauty, rich heritage, and vibrant culture of Grenoble, a picturesque city in the heart of the French Alps.
La Tour Jacquemart
38.7 km
Explore the historical marvel of La Tour Jacquemart in Romans-sur-Isère, where medieval architecture meets rich cultural heritage.
Gare de Grenoble
39.3 km
Experience Grenoble: Begin your Alpine adventure at the Gare de Grenoble, connecting you to the heart of the city and beyond.
Tour Perret
39.5 km
Grenoble's iconic Tour Perret: A pioneering concrete structure and symbol of innovation in Parc Paul Mistral, though currently closed to the public.
Parc Paul Mistral
39.6 km
Discover Grenoble's largest park: a vibrant green space with history, recreation, and cultural events for everyone to enjoy.
Porte de France
39.8 km
Discover Grenoble's past at the Porte de France, a historic gate and monument offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Jardin des Dauphins
39.8 km
Escape to Grenoble's Jardin des Dauphins: a historic terraced garden with stunning views, diverse flora, and family-friendly fun.
Jardin de Ville
39.9 km
Discover Grenoble's historic Jardin de Ville: a green oasis with gardens, statues, and events in the heart of the city, open year-round.
Appartement natal de Stendhal
39.9 km
Step into the world of Stendhal at his birthplace in Grenoble, a museum celebrating the life and work of the celebrated French author.
Halles Sainte-Claire
39.9 km
Discover local flavors at Grenoble's historic covered market, a vibrant hub for regional produce and culinary delights in a stunning 19th-century setting.
Téléphérique
39.9 km
Ascend to the Bastille in Grenoble's iconic 'bubbles' for panoramic views of the city and Alps. A historic and breathtaking experience!
Museum of the Resistance and Deportation of Isère
40.0 km
Explore the history of the French Resistance and deportation in Isère at this moving and educational museum in Grenoble.
Palais du Parlement du Dauphiné
40.0 km
Discover Grenoble's Palais du Parlement du Dauphiné: A historic landmark with stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Belvédère des crêtes du Vercors
3.5 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views and serene hiking trails at Belvédère des Crêtes du Vercors in the heart of the French Alps.
Sous le Pas de la Ville
3.7 km
Hike to the heart of Vercors! Explore scenic trails, discover wildlife, and experience the beauty of the French Alps near Gresse-en-Vercors.
Caves of La Luire - Guided tours
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Caves of La Luire in Vercors: a natural masterpiece with a fascinating WWII history, offering guided tours and stunning views.
Champ De L'Herse
5.3 km
Discover Champ De L'Herse in Gresse-en-Vercors: a scenic hiking paradise with trails for all levels and stunning mountain views.
L'Odyssée Verte
6.2 km
Explore the forest canopy on suspended walkways at L'Odyssée Verte in Gresse-en-Vercors, a unique and educational treetop adventure.
Parc naturel régional du Vercors
6.7 km
Experience the majestic beauty and diverse wildlife of Parc Naturel Régional du Vercors, a pristine nature preserve in the French Alps.
col du rousset
7.6 km
Discover Col du Rousset: A scenic mountain pass in the Vercors, offering stunning views, outdoor activities, and a glimpse into French history.
Musée départemental de la Résistance du Vercors
9.1 km
Explore the history of the French Resistance at this museum in Vassieux-en-Vercors, a village at the heart of WWII history.
Musée de la Préhistoire du Vercors
10.0 km
Explore prehistoric life in the Vercors at this interactive museum built on a 5,000-year-old flint knapping workshop site. A family-friendly adventure!
Resistance Memorial
10.2 km
Explore the Resistance Memorial in Vassieux-en-Vercors: a tribute to WWII heroes, offering immersive exhibits & historical insights in a serene setting.
Grotte de la Percée Blanche
10.2 km
Discover a 4-million-year-old cave with stunning geological formations, guided tours, and an on-site bar and restaurant in Vercors, France.
Grotte du Brudour
13.6 km
Explore the geological wonders of Grotte du Brudour in Bouvante, France, a serene escape into nature's artistry.
Vallon Combeau
13.6 km
Discover Vallon Combeau: Hike through stunning landscapes, explore diverse flora, and witness breathtaking views in the heart of Vercors Natural Park.
Croix de chatelard
13.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and invigorating hikes at Croix de Châtelard, the gateway to Vercors Regional Natural Park's beauty.
La roche des Arnauds
14.4 km
Discover breathtaking trails and panoramic views in La Roche des Arnauds, a hiking paradise near La Chapelle-en-Vercors.
Essential places to dine
Hôtel restaurant Auberge Le Collet
9.6 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine and cozy accommodations at Hôtel Restaurant Auberge Le Collet in Saint-Agnan-en-Vercors.
Hôtel Restaurant Bellier - Vercors
11.1 km
Experience the charm of Hôtel Restaurant Bellier in La Chapelle-en-Vercors: where comfort meets culinary excellence amidst stunning mountain views.
Côté Terrasse VERCORS
11.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Côté Terrasse VERCORS while enjoying breathtaking mountain views in La Chapelle-en-Vercors.
Auberge refuge de Roybon
14.7 km
Discover rustic charm and delectable cuisine at Auberge Refuge de Roybon, your perfect alpine retreat in the heart of Vercors.
Le Clariant
14.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Clariant in Corrençon-en-Vercors - where every dish tells a story amidst stunning alpine views.
Les Hauts Plateaux
16.4 km
Discover Les Hauts Plateaux: A charming French restaurant offering exquisite cuisine amid the stunning landscapes of Corrençon-en-Vercors.
Auberge de Malaterre.
18.4 km
Discover Auberge de Malaterre, where authentic French cuisine meets breathtaking alpine views in Villard-de-Lans.
Café Brochier
19.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Café Brochier in Saint-Julien-en-Vercors – where every dish tells a story.
Cabane Café
21.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Cabane Café in Choranche—where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Auberge des Allières
26.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and cozy mountain lodging at Auberge des Allières in Lans-en-Vercors.
Palégrié chez l'Henri
27.9 km
Discover the essence of haute French cuisine at Palégrié chez l'Henri in Autrans-Méaudre en Vercors – where flavor meets elegance.
La Cabane des Jassinets
28.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Cabane des Jassinets in Lans-en-Vercors—where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Auberge de la Croix Perrin
28.7 km
Discover comfort and relaxation at Auberge de la Croix Perrin, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Vercors Mountains.
La Cabane de l'Aigle
28.7 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine at La Cabane de l'Aigle, nestled in scenic Lans-en-Vercors with stunning mountain views.
Le Bois Des Mûres
29.1 km
Experience exquisite French dining at Le Bois Des Mûres in Lans-en-Vercors – where culinary artistry meets stunning scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Skiset Grillet Sports
5.6 km
Explore the great outdoors with Skiset Grillet Sports, your trusted partner for ski rentals, mountain gear, and biking adventures in Gresse-en-Vercors.
Bureau de la Montagne de Gresse Vercors Trieves
6.3 km
Discover the wonders of Vercors with expert guides at Bureau de la Montagne, your gateway to unforgettable hiking, biking, and climbing adventures.
Au pied de l'Aiguille
10.5 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and couture treasures at Au Pied de l'Aiguille in the heart of Chichilianne's scenic landscape.
Recyclerie La Piste ReCyclable
11.3 km
Uncover hidden gems and vintage treasures at Recyclerie La Piste ReCyclable, a sustainable consignment shop in the heart of La Chapelle-en-Vercors.
Les Ravioles des Grands Goulets
11.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of French ravioles at Les Ravioles des Grands Goulets in La Chapelle-en-Vercors, a culinary delight you can't miss.
Verta'Couture
15.6 km
Discover bespoke fashion at Verta'Couture, where personalized design meets exceptional craftsmanship in the heart of Saint-Martin-en-Vercors.
La Vie en Couleurs
16.3 km
Discover unique clothing and vibrant fashion at La Vie en Couleurs in Saint-Martin-en-Vercors, a must-visit for style-savvy tourists.
La Chèvrerie des Cabrioles, Corrençon en Vercors
17.1 km
Discover the rich flavors of artisanal cheese at La Chèvrerie des Cabrioles, a charming farm and cheese shop in the heart of the Vercors.
L'Ephémère
21.5 km
Explore L'Ephémère in Saint-Jean-en-Royans for unique handcrafted treasures that embody the charm and artistry of the French countryside.
Riders On The Storm - Réparation & Location Vélos
21.9 km
Discover the beauty of the French Alps with quality bike rentals and expert repairs at Riders On The Storm in Villard-de-Lans.
La Féerie des Cadeaux
21.9 km
Explore La Féerie des Cadeaux, your go-to gift shop in Villard-de-Lans for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures.
Moderna
22.0 km
Discover a charming notions store in Villard-de-Lans, featuring a delightful variety of crafting supplies and unique gifts that reflect local artistry.
The Blue Suede
22.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Blue Suede in Villard-de-Lans, the perfect stop for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Casino Shop
22.0 km
Experience local flavors at Casino Shop in Villard-de-Lans - your go-to convenience store for fresh produce, organic goods, and delightful baked treats.
La Petite Boutique
22.1 km
Explore the heart of Villard-de-Lans at La Petite Boutique, where local artisans meet unique souvenirs, perfect for travelers seeking authentic keepsakes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Vercors Massif
10.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Vercors Massif in the French Alps, a paradise for outdoor adventures, rich biodiversity, and charming alpine villages.
Logis Hôtel le Carnot
16.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of culinary excellence and cozy accommodation at Logis Hôtel le Carnot in Die, France.
Le Refuge du Phoenix
17.0 km
Discover the allure of Le Refuge du Phoenix, a bar and restaurant in Échevis, blending local cuisine with vibrant live music and a cozy mountain cabin atmosphere.
Restaurant La Glisse à Villard-de-Lans
20.5 km
Discover the flavors of France at Restaurant La Glisse in Villard-de-Lans, where alpine charm meets exceptional cuisine.
La Bulle de Lans
28.0 km
Experience the authentic flavors of the Vercors Mountains at La Bulle de Lans, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views.
Restaurant La Charrette
29.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of France at Restaurant La Charrette in Lans-en-Vercors, where local ingredients meet traditional culinary excellence.
Le Banc de l'Ours Restaurant d'Alpage
34.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Banc de l'Ours, nestled in the beautiful Alps of Autrans, perfect for a cozy alpine dining experience.
Bar Cent Un
39.0 km
Discover Bar Cent Un in Grenoble, a lively beer hall offering a unique selection of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious tapas in a cozy atmosphere.
BLIND PIG
39.0 km
Discover Blind Pig, Grenoble's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
La Girafe
39.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of La Girafe, a premier pub in Grenoble blending sports, wine, and relaxation for an unforgettable night out.
Le Champollion Bar
39.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Le Champollion Bar in Grenoble, where good drinks and great company come together in a cozy setting.
Bar Phenomen
39.4 km
Discover Bar Phenomen, a vibrant bar in Grenoble offering craft beers, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and entertainment.
À l'Ouest
39.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at À l'Ouest, a cozy bar in Grenoble known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable drinks.
Auberge de la Poya
39.9 km
Discover the charm of Auberge de la Poya, a cozy bar and café in Autrans-Méaudre, perfect for unwinding after outdoor adventures in the Vercors region.
Bar Le Tord Boyaux
40.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Le Tord Boyaux in Grenoble, where unique drinks and a welcoming ambiance await every visitor.