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  4. GR91: crossing the Vercors via Villard and Corrençon

Looking for a unique experience in the Vercors? If you’re a hiker, a trail runner or a lover of wild, unspoilt open spaces, why not embark on the great crossing of the Vercors via the GR 91? It’s a great adventure to share, immersed in the magnificent landscapes of the Vercors. It’s a great way to cut yourself off from the world for a while, and come back with some wonderful landscapes and unforgettable memories…

    What is the GR 91?

    Crossing the Vercors from north to south via the GR 91 is a classic for keen hikers. On the programme: discover the flora and fauna, the wide-open spaces characteristic of the Vercors and cross the Hauts-Plateaux Nature Reserve. Get away from it all thanks to the different environments that nature has to offer: plateaux, forests, passes and mountain pastures. This is an experience you can enjoy on your own or accompanied, taking the time to enjoy the fresh air of our region.

    The route is in 2 parts:

    • From Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte to Corrençon-en-Vercors (27 km – 3 days)
    • From Corrençon-en-Vercors to Châtillon-en-Diois (53 km – 3 days minimum)

    From Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte to Corrençon-en-Vercors 27 km - 3 days

    This first section, starting from the village of Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte, takes you up to the top of the Moucherotte. You’ll enjoy beautiful panoramic views over Grenoble and the mountain ranges as far as the eye can see. The route continues to Corrençon en Vercors, via Lans en Vercors and Villard de Lans and the famous Gobert trail.

      Good to know!
      • Total of 80 kilometres from Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte (Isère) to Châtillon-en-Diois (Drôme)
      • The crossing depends on the snow conditions. Ideally, the crossing should take place between May and October.

        From Corrençon-en-Vercors to Châtillon-en-Diois 53 km - 3 days minimum

        Corrençon en Vercors is the gateway to the Vercors High Plateaux Nature Reserve. You’ll soon discover the wild side of our wide open spaces, which stretch over more than 17,000 hectares. A change of scenery guaranteed.

        Just a few kilometres after leaving the village of Corrençon en Vercors, you’ll cross the 45th parallel (a parallel line running halfway between the poles and the equator), symbolised by a bronze monument.

        Along the way, it’s impossible to miss Grand Veymont and Mont Aiguille, the two must-see peaks in the Vercors.

        FAQ

        • When to go? 🗓️

          The itinerary can be accessed in fine spring weather. However, the passes may still be snow-covered. The busiest period is between 15 July and 15 August. Accommodation will be more difficult during this period. From September-October, the fine late summer days are ideal for discovering the Hauts Plateaux in the beautiful light.

        • Which routes? ➡️

          For quicker access to the wide open spaces of the Hauts Plateaux and to enjoy the Nature Reserve, you can set off directly from Corrençon.
          If you want to enjoy a magnificent view of Grenoble, take the first part of the GTV (Grande traversée du Vercors).

        • Where to sleep? 💤

          On the first part of the route (Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte to Corrençon en Vercors), you can sleep in gîtes and accommodation in the villages (Lans en Vercors, Villard de Lans and Corrençon en Vercors). You can also bivouac on this section.

          On the second part of the crossing (Corrençon en Vercors to Châtillon en Diois), you will be completely self-sufficient, with the option of staying in the unguarded huts on the plateau. You are also allowed to pitch your tent and bivouac for the night, but please follow the bivouac instructions.

          Here is the list of unguarded huts: https: //montourenvercors.com/organisez-votre-sejour/cabanes-et-sources/

        • Are there any water points? 💧

          Water is a very rare resource in the Vercors. Before setting off on the traverse, make sure you take enough water with you. Many springs, even those shown on the maps, have actually dried up. List of water sources and their flow rates: https: //www.parc-du-vercors.fr/info-sources

        • What to do about patous (guard dogs)? 🐕

          Patous may be present on your walk. They are there to protect the herds from any outside attack. Make sure you remain calm and adopt the recommended gestures when faced with these animals: signal your arrival, keep a safe distance, accept confrontation, don’t be aggressive and don’t run away.

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