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Sous le Pas de la Ville: A Gateway to Vercors Hiking

Hike to the heart of Vercors! Explore scenic trails, discover wildlife, and experience the beauty of the French Alps near Gresse-en-Vercors.

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Sous le Pas de la Ville marks a significant point on hiking trails near Gresse-en-Vercors, offering access to stunning Vercors landscapes. It's a popular spot for those venturing towards the Pas de la Ville and the Grand Veymont, the Vercors' highest peak, providing a taste of the region's natural beauty.

A brief summary to Sous le Pas de la Ville

Local tips

  • Wear appropriate hiking shoes, as the trails can be stony and slippery, especially on the descent.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
  • Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
  • Be aware of wildlife, such as marmots and ibex, and observe them from a distance.
  • During summer, be mindful of sheep and guard dogs; bypass them calmly and speak softly to the dogs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the village center of Gresse-en-Vercors, follow the well-marked hiking trails towards the ski resort area. Continue past the ski lifts, keeping an eye out for signs indicating "Pas de la Ville" or "Champ de l'Herse". The trail begins at the end of the ski resort parking lot, near a bridge. Follow the path, which initially runs alongside the ski lifts before ascending into the forest. The hike to Sous le Pas de la Ville takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Gresse-en-Vercors is accessible by bus from Grenoble. From the bus stop in Gresse-en-Vercors, walk towards the village center and then follow the walking directions to the ski resort area and the start of the hiking trail. The bus fare from Grenoble to Gresse-en-Vercors is approximately €11.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Gresse-en-Vercors and can take you to the Champ de l'Herse parking lot, the starting point for the hike. A taxi from the center of Gresse-en-Vercors to the parking area will cost approximately €10-€15. Taxis can be booked in advance.

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Discover more about Sous le Pas de la Ville

Sous le Pas de la Ville, translating to "Under the Step of the City," serves as a crucial junction for hikers exploring the Vercors Regional Natural Park. Located near Gresse-en-Vercors, this area is a common starting point for trails leading to the Pas de la Ville, a historical passage at 1925 meters altitude, and onward to the summit of Grand Veymont. The hike to Sous le Pas de la Ville from Gresse-en-Vercors typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, ascending 500 meters in altitude. The path is well-marked, making it relatively easy to navigate. From Sous le Pas de la Ville, hikers can choose to continue to the Pas de la Ville (an additional 50 minutes) or descend back towards the starting point. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and meadows, with opportunities to spot local wildlife like chamois and marmots. During World War II, the Pas de la Ville was a strategic location and one of the last to fall into German hands during the battle known as "des Pas" in July 1944. Today, it's a place of natural beauty and a gateway to the Vercors High Plateaux, a protected natural reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna.

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