The most beautiful places in Drôme Provençale
How not to succumb to the charm of Drôme Provençale? A region filled with authenticity, unique landscapes, and typical white stone villages of southeastern France. Discover this magnificent region with enchanting scents, warm people, and incomparable local products.
1. STROLL IN THE REGIONAL NATURAL PARK OF PROVENÇAL BARONNIES
A natural setting offering a mild climate and remarkable landscapes.
Established in 2014, the Regional Natural Park of Provençal Baronnies is the 51st Regional Natural Park in France. Located between Drôme and Hautes-Alpes, the area boasts a rugged terrain of medium mountains with a Mediterranean climate.
Away from major roads, nature dominates in the Regional Natural Park of Provençal Baronnies. 🌿 You will discover exceptional fauna and flora influenced by the presence of men and women who work there. Indeed, the inhabitants practice diverse and recognized agriculture. There are 6 Controlled Designation of Origin and 7 Protected Geographical Indications throughout the territory, including wines, olive oil, and Provencal herbs… 😋
These remarkable landscapes, rich in diversity, offer an ideal playground for nature lovers. It’s the perfect place to put on your hiking shoes.
🚗: 1 hour from the campsite
2. EXPLORE THE PERCHED VILLAGES OF DRÔME PROVENÇALE
Let yourself be transported to another era!
Drôme Provençale is full of perched villages that have preserved their soul over the centuries. Most of these villages date back to the Middle Ages, around the 11th or 12th century, and are fortified. Strolling through the Provençal villages of Drôme is like traveling back in time; walk through sloping cobbled streets, observe preserved and renovated facades, admire the exceptional viewpoints these villages offer, and for a moment, you will believe you are in another era.
There is no doubt that you will be enchanted by the typical architecture of these medieval villages. Also, to immerse yourself even more in history, many of these villages regularly organize medieval festivals and events to tell their story.
3. WANDER THROUGH THE PROVENCAL MARKETS, DISCOVER LOCAL SPECIALTIES
Good vibes, Provencal scents, and an atmosphere not to be missed!
Of course, you cannot visit a Provencal village without going through its essential markets. A place with a warm atmosphere, typical scents, and colorful stalls. 😍
Markets are genuine places for exchanges and encounters with the local population and regional producers. They will be delighted to present you with their products stemming from a passion-driven profession. Indulge in local products and culinary specialties such as Montélimar nougat, honey, Baronnies apricots, Nyons olives, and all the other sun-soaked fruits and vegetables.
In each municipality, the market is a charming place where people come with pleasure. So, don’t hesitate for a second to discover these typical places.
4. DISCOVER THE PAYS DE GRIGNAN AND THE ENCLAVE DES PAPES
The Pays de Grignan: rich historical heritage and a land with Provencal colors.
Located 30 km from Montélimar, the Pays de Grignan adjoins the Enclave des Papes. The two are linked by their history and have inherited a rich heritage dating from the 12th to the 14th centuries.
The Enclave des Papes is a unique place to discover. Indeed, its particularity lies in being a piece of territory belonging to Vaucluse but enclosed in Drôme! The Enclave des Papes is also a community of municipalities that notably houses the village of Grignan and its must-visit structure, the Grignan Castle, perched on a small hill. A beautiful place to visit all year round.
The Pays de Grignan-Enclave des Papes, located on the wine route, is surrounded by landscapes of evergreen oaks, lavender, and scrubland, interspersed with vineyards and truffle fields. A territory conducive to hiking on foot or by bike thanks to its numerous trails. A chance to admire panoramic views of the valley.
🚗: 1 hour and 30 minutes from Camping Le Couriou.
5. EXPLORE VIA RHÔNA, 50KM ACROSS DRÔME
ViaRhôna, the cycle route / greenway, a member of the EuroVelo network
ViaRhôna is a large-scale project that connects Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean by the greenway. In total, a route of 815 kilometers loaded with over 2,000 years of history.
In Drôme Provençale, ViaRhôna largely follows the former towpaths that were once used to tow boats from the riverbank. There are five sections open to the public in Drôme, ranging from Montélimar to Pierrelatte. These are 50 kilometers of greenways accessible in Drôme.
A fun activity to discover with family or friends, allowing you to explore iconic landscapes of Drôme Provençale. 😍