The best walks and hikes around Clelles

Clelles, situated at the gateway to the Vercors Regional Natural Park, offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. You'll find trails traversing forested mountains, dramatic limestone cliffs, and high alpine ridges. The landscape includes varied terrain from plateaus to deep gorges, providing options for different ability levels.

There are over 300 hiking routes available around Clelles. These include a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult trails, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

Yes, Clelles offers several easy and family-friendly options. For instance, the Ebron Footbridge – Pont de Brion loop from Communauté de communes du Trièves is an easy 3.5 km trail that takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. Another short, easy option is the View of the Brion Bridge – Passarella Ebron loop from Communauté de communes du Trièves, which is 2.1 km long.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy views of the iconic Mont Aiguille from many trails. The Vercors Massif's highest point, Grand Veymont, offers panoramic vistas. For unique geological formations, explore areas with tall limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and chasms. The Ebron Footbridge provides spectacular views over the Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet.

The Vercors Regional Natural Park, where Clelles is located, is a year-round destination. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for higher-altitude trails. Winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing, though some hiking trails may be inaccessible due to snow.

Yes, there are several circular routes. An example is the Ebron Footbridge – Pont de Brion loop from Communauté de communes du Trièves, which is a popular easy circular hike. Another is the Platary Summit – Chichilianne loop from Chichilianne, a moderate 10.3 km route.

Many trails in the Vercors Regional Natural Park are dog-friendly, but it's essential to check specific regulations, especially within protected areas like the Hauts-Plateaux Nature Reserve where dogs may be restricted to protect wildlife. Always keep your dog on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved.

The hiking routes in Clelles are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2000 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views of Mont Aiguille, and the well-maintained paths that lead through forests, meadows, and charming hamlets.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers, routes like Tête Chevalière offer a significant challenge, covering 16.7 km with over 860 meters of elevation gain. Another difficult option is Platary Ridge, a 15 km path with substantial elevation changes.

Clelles is a small town, and while some local bus services might connect to nearby villages, direct public transport to specific trailheads within the Vercors Regional Natural Park can be limited. It's often advisable to have a car for greater flexibility in accessing the wider network of trails. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Clelles and the surrounding villages offer various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options such as guesthouses and small hotels. These can be found in the town center and nearby hamlets, providing convenient places to refuel and rest after a day of hiking.

The Vercors Regional Natural Park is a haven for wildlife. The Hauts-Plateaux Nature Reserve, in particular, is home to 72 species of mammals, including chamois, deer, ibex, and mouflon, as well as nearly 140 species of nesting birds. Keep an eye out for these animals, especially in quieter, less frequented areas.