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Route Touristique de Combe Laval: A Road Carved into the Void

Experience the thrill of driving along a road carved into the cliffs of the Vercors, with breathtaking views of the French Alps.

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The Route Touristique de Combe Laval is a breathtaking road carved into the cliffs of the Vercors Massif in France. Originally built to transport timber, it now offers a thrilling drive with stunning views of the Royans valley and the surrounding mountains.

A brief summary to Route touristique de Combe Laval

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

Local tips

  • Drive carefully, as the road is narrow and winding with steep drop-offs.
  • Stop at the Col de la Machine for panoramic views of the Combe Laval and the Royans valley.
  • Visit the Orthodox Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great, located near the Col de la Machine.
  • The best time to visit is from late spring to early fall for favorable weather and blooming alpine flora.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Saint-Jean-en-Royans, follow the D76 towards the Col de la Machine. The Route de Combe Laval is well-signposted. Be aware that the road is narrow and winding, so drive carefully. There are several parking areas along the route where you can stop to take in the views. Parking is free. Watch out for cyclists.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transport along the Route de Combe Laval, you can take a bus from Valence to Saint-Jean-en-Royans. From there, you can rent a car or bicycle to explore the Combe Laval. Bus fare from Valence to Saint-Jean-en-Royans is approximately €5-€10. Car rentals in Saint-Jean-en-Royans start at around €30 per day.

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Discover more about Route touristique de Combe Laval

The Route Touristique de Combe Laval is more than just a road; it's an experience. Carved into the sheer rock face of the Combe Laval, a geological indentation in the Vercors limestone plateau, this vertiginous route offers unparalleled views of the Royans valley. The road winds its way between Saint-Jean-en-Royans and the Col de la Machine, climbing from 254 to 1,144 meters (833 to 3,753 feet). Built in the late 19th century and opened in 1898, the road was initially designed to transport timber from the Lente forest. Before its construction, the Chartreux monks used a path along the western side of Combe Laval to transport charcoal. The construction of the road was a feat of engineering, with workers blasting away at the rock face to create a passage. The road includes several tunnels and sections that cling to the cliffside, offering dizzying views. Today, the Route Touristique de Combe Laval is a popular tourist destination. The road's dramatic setting and stunning views make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Vercors region. Along the route, there are several spots to pull over and take in the scenery. The Col de la Machine offers a panoramic view of the Combe Laval and the Royans valley. The area is a classified site, highlighting the importance of protecting its environment and species.

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