Attractions and Places To See around Aucelon - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Aucelon, a commune in the Drôme department of southeastern France, offers a variety of points of interest. Nestled at 755 meters altitude, it is characterized by a preserved natural environment, with half of its surface area designated as a Natura 2000 zone. The region features both impressive natural landscapes and historical sites.
Best attractions and places to see around Aucelon
- The most popular attractions is Col de la Chaudière, a mountain pass that connects two distinct landscapes. This pass, at 1,047 meters above sea level, offers clear views of the Drôme Provençale.
- Another must-see spot is Saut de la Drôme and the Claps, a river featuring a waterfall and a spectacular mountain collapse overlooking the Drôme river. This site is also an ideal climbing location, offering more than 120 routes for various skill levels.
- Visitors also love Col de Pennes, a mountain pass known for its narrow and quiet road. It offers great views and is a challenging climb for cyclists, with slopes sometimes reaching 10%.
- Aucelon is known for its natural sites, mountain passes, and opportunities for outdoor activities. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from geological formations to scenic routes.
- The attractions around Aucelon are appreciated by the komoot community, with 56 upvotes and 23 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Saut de la Drôme and the Claps
Highlight • River
This grandiose place is also a reservoir in summer where you can cool off in the shade of the pine trees and see the Drôme waterfall. It’s also an ideal climbing site: more than 120 routes for all levels and a via ferrata.
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Col de Pennes
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Along the Drôme River
Highlight (Segment) • Other
Here you benefit from a quiet road to enjoy the landscape while connecting Chatillon-en-Diois.
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Col de la Chaudière
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Luc-en-Diois
Highlight • Settlement
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Tips from the Community
Feeling a little thirsty? Luckily, the fountain bar is here to help.
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A beautiful little pass under the gaze of the three beaks
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That route along the Drôme sounds all well and good, but you actually see the Drôme here, but in one or two places.
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It all began in 1442 when a foundation broke away from the southern flank of Pic de Luc. As it slid, it hit a limestone spur, divided, broke into enormous blocks and blocked the Drôme at two points... thus two lakes were formed: the Petit downstream and the Grand upstream. The “Grand Lac” is 5 km long and arouses envy because it is full of fish. In 1561 it thus became the property of the Carthusians of Durban, monks to whom meat was forbidden. It was only in 1804 that a huge block, the “dad”, was pierced to let the water flow at the location of the current Saut de la Drôme. This vast dry body of water now gives way to an agricultural plain (ruined Bouligons farm and its formerly cultivated terraces) and the Bouligons marsh, the last vestige of the disappeared lake. The need to avoid the Claps during the construction of the “Briançonnais” railway line at the beginning of the 20th century also gave the site a magnificent viaduct, 244 m long and 44 m high.
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Typical village of Haut-Diois, former Roman capital of the region. There you will find water at the fountain, public toilets and above all a superb organic grocery store La Milpa, just opposite the bakery. It is the last village before Claps, and probably the last shops you will find before going to the other side of the Col de Cabre.
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Located just under the Trois Becs, the Col de la Chaudière peaks at an altitude of 1,047 meters. It offers a clear view of the Drôme Provençale. The climb is gradual on both sides, whether from the Saillan side or from Bourdeaux.
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You can also find a 1000er in the area
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Beautiful and impressive site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural wonders can I explore around Aucelon?
The region around Aucelon is rich in natural beauty. A must-see is Saut de la Drôme and the Claps, an impressive site featuring a waterfall and a spectacular mountain collapse. You can also discover the picturesque Col de Pennes and Col de la Chaudière, both offering stunning views. The Montagne du Sapey and the Bouligons Marsh, a remnant of a disappeared lake, also highlight the area's preserved natural environment.
Are there opportunities for cycling in the Aucelon area?
Yes, Aucelon and its surroundings are excellent for cycling. The Col de Pennes is a challenging climb with slopes up to 10%, offering quiet roads and great views. The Col de la Chaudière also provides a gradual climb with clear views of the Drôme Provençale. For more routes, you can explore various cycling guides, such as Cycling around Aucelon or Road Cycling Routes around Aucelon.
What historical sites or cultural points of interest are there in Aucelon and nearby?
Aucelon village itself is a moving perched village with a protestant temple featuring a bible in relief. Nearby, Luc-en-Diois is a typical Haut-Diois village and former Roman capital. The area also features a magnificent railway viaduct, 244 meters long and 44 meters high, built to avoid the Claps. Cairns on the Servelle commemorate the courage of locals during WWII, and the region holds traces of the historic Huguenot exile.
What hiking trails are available near Aucelon?
The region around Aucelon offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails on the plateau of Serre Chauvière that provide panoramic views, and the 'Boucle sur la montagne de Justin' is another popular option. The mountain of Aucelon itself, reaching 1356 meters, offers scenic views from La Servelle and its ridges. For more detailed routes, check out komoot's hiking guides for the area.
Is there a place for swimming or cooling off in summer?
Yes, Saut de la Drôme and the Claps is a popular spot for cooling off in summer. The area provides shade from pine trees and features the Drôme waterfall, making it an ideal place to relax by the water.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions suitable for children?
Families can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Cooling off at Saut de la Drôme and the Claps is a great summer activity. Exploring the charming village of Luc-en-Diois can also be enjoyable. Many of the hiking and cycling routes in the region offer varying difficulties, so families can find trails suitable for their skill levels.
What is the best time of year to visit Aucelon for outdoor activities?
The summer months are ideal for visiting Aucelon, especially for activities like cooling off at the Drôme river. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant weather for hiking and cycling, with vibrant landscapes and fewer crowds. The challenging climbs of the mountain passes are popular throughout the warmer seasons.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the region?
For breathtaking views, head to Col de Pennes and Col de la Chaudière. The Col de la Chaudière, located just below the Trois Becs, offers clear views of the Drôme Provençale. Additionally, the summit of La Servelle and the ridges of the Aucelon mountain provide expansive scenic vistas.
Are there any climbing opportunities near Aucelon?
Yes, Saut de la Drôme and the Claps is an ideal climbing site. It offers more than 120 routes for all skill levels, as well as a via ferrata, making it a popular destination for climbers.
What kind of wildlife or protected areas are in Aucelon?
Aucelon is known for its preserved natural environment, with half of its surface area designated as a Natura 2000 zone. This highlights its ecological importance and means you can expect to encounter diverse flora and fauna, particularly around the Montagne du Sapey and the Bouligons Marsh, which is the last remnant of a disappeared lake.
Can I find places to eat or stay in Aucelon or nearby?
While Aucelon is a small, preserved village, nearby Luc-en-Diois offers a few bars, a small supermarket, and an organic grocery store for supplies. You'll also find a nice campsite on the Drôme river near Luc-en-Diois. For more extensive options, you might need to venture to larger towns in the Drôme department.
Are there any gravel biking routes around Aucelon?
Absolutely! The area around Aucelon is great for gravel biking. You can find routes like 'Along the Drôme River – Justin's Cross loop from Rimon-et-Savel' or 'Travard Pass – Roanne Gorges loop from Pradelle'. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the Gravel biking around Aucelon guide.
Most popular attractions around Aucelon
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