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Stroll and explore, enjoy the countryside, have fun and learn…

Follow the signs along the “Discovery Trails” of the Diois.







We have created a series of “themed” paths around the Diois so you can explore the delights of the region on foot.
After several of these pleasant outings, you will have had a wonderful taste of what our region has to offer.

The trails are not too long (just long enough!) and are generally well-marked. However, trail markings can become dislodged or lost, so do pay attention. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and to bring water, something to eat and something to protect your head from the sun.

 
   

The Bouligons Marsh at Beaurières

 
   


The source of the River Drome is close to the massive rock jumble of Le Claps (from the local dialect word for rocks: clapas).
The impressive formation of Le Claps dates back to 1442, when part of the mountain Pic de Luc crumbled and the enormous rocks tumbled down to the river. The rocks blocked the flow of the water and a huge lake rose behind this natural dam, submerging the valley for about six kilometers upstream. The lake was drained in the 18th century, leaving behind a rich agricultural plane that became part of the now-deserted Bouligons farm; the farm and its formerly cultivated terraces are now in ruins.
The last vestige of the lake itself is the ecologically rich Bouligons marsh. The water level in the marsh varies enormously during the year and the wetland is often completely flooded in November and in March/April. Among the plants to be found there are varieties of reeds (Phragmites australis) and sedge grasses (Carex sp.) It is interesting to note the different vegetation between the formerly cultivated areas and those that have always remained natural.

The Bouligons Marsh discovery trail reveals the remarkable mountain and wetland flora and fauna, which includes more than 300 plant varieties, of which 18 are rare.
A detailed booklet on the marsh is currently being prepared by the local council.
   
Discovery Trail from la Sarcéna to Valdrôme  
   

At the heart of the forest of Valdrôme, the fir trees of Sarcena are a kind of forest relic from the last glacial period. Here, the northern exposure, high altitude and geography, which sheltered the trees from drying winds, have conspired to allow this rare forest to survive in such southern latitudes.

And the forest has survived other threats as well. During the 19th century, there were around 1,200 inhabitants of Valdrôme and they needed wood for heating and construction. The fir trees were saved only thanks to the vigilance of two communal foresters. Today, the forest is managed by the Office National des Forêts and is a protected site.

The discovery trail starts at the Pré Pourri hut before heading into the Sarcena fir forest. You can get more information on this trail from the tourist office at Valdrome. The whole circuit is about 2.5 kilometers long and should take around 2 hours.

  
   
Discover the Vineyards of the Diois – On the Clairette Trail  
   


In a wooded and mountainous environment, vines tend to flourish in hidden folds in the landscape. Although some are obvious, you will find many of our local vineyards only after following the twisting turns of a tiny local road.

So several Clairette de Die discovery trails were designed to show you some of the beautiful vineyards where the grapes ripen under our sunny skies to produce our delicious local wine.


Varying in length between 30 minutes and an hour and a half, these short excursions will help you appreciate the richness of our land. All of these trails have also been purposely designed for ease of access so everyone can enjoy them.

A free booklet with details of the 8 Clairette de Die Discovery Trails is available at the tourist office. (In French only)
   
On the Lavender Trail in the Haute Diois  
   

What a treat in July to discover the vibrant lavender fields in the area known as the Haut (or High) Diois, in the mountains to the south of Die.

The lavender blooms from the beginning of July through to the middle of August and is a delight to the senses.

And you can certainly treat your senses if you like lavender with a series of six suggested walks, where you can enjoy fragrant lavender fields and visit traditional distilleries.

The booklet (in French) ,“Sur les traces de la lavande dans le Haut-Diois - parcours de 2h à 4h autour de Valdrôme, au milieu des champs de lavande” (On the Lavender Trail in the Haute Diois : walking circuits of 2 to 4 hours Near Valdrome, among the lavender fields), outlines the practical details of the “discovery trails” through lavender country.
Each walk takes about half a day, but they can also be combined into a three-day voyage that takes in the areas around Valdrôme, Charens, Beaumont, Lesches, Val-Maravel and Beaurières.
Accommodation is available in each of the villages. The booklet can be purchased for 4 € at the tourist office.