Top 15 Gorges around Malleval-En-Vercors

The Canyon du Malin, located near Malleval-en-Vercors, offers a thrilling and varied canyoning experience. It features a sporty, vertical progression with a mix of small abseils, natural slides, swimming, jumping, and rope work. A highlight is the impressive 40-meter waterfall. It's known for its wild, preserved nature, often described as a 'vertical jungle'.

While the Canyon du Malin is suitable for intermediate to sporty adventurers, it can be accessible to resourceful and athletic novices, particularly families with teenagers from 14 years old, provided they are in good physical condition.

A canyoning activity in the Canyon du Malin typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, which includes the approach walk, the descent itself, and the return.

The Gorges du Nan are a significant natural attraction near Malleval-en-Vercors, primarily known for hiking and geological exploration rather than technical canyoning. They are a designated Sensitive Natural Area, offering impressive cliffs, rich biodiversity, and beautiful viewpoints. The area is ideal for observing geological curiosities and enjoying nature.

Beyond the Gorges du Nan, you can explore Choranche, a gorge featuring a waterfall and a cave with portions open for guided tours. The Méaudret gorges also offer scenic routes along the Méaudret river, suitable for cycling or walking.

Canyoning in the Vercors region is generally best enjoyed during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September), when water levels are suitable and temperatures are comfortable for aquatic activities.

Yes, the village of Malleval-en-Vercors itself holds historical significance as a place of resistance during the Second World War, adding a layer of cultural context to your visit to the natural surroundings.

The region around Malleval-en-Vercors offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, running trails, and MTB trails. The Gorges du Nan, for instance, are excellent for hiking and enjoying geological formations.

For canyoning, it's essential to bring appropriate gear, which typically includes a wetsuit, helmet, harness, and specialized shoes. Many tour operators provide rental equipment. Additionally, bring water, snacks, and a waterproof bag for personal items.

Yes, the Gorges du Nan feature a cantilevered road clinging to the rock face, offering magnificent viewpoints as you travel through the canyon. The Écouges Tunnel also provides access to beautiful views of the Drevenne gorges.

The Canyon du Malin is considered suitable for an intermediate to sporty level. While it requires good physical condition, it can also be managed by resourceful and athletic novices, especially those with some prior outdoor experience.

The diverse terrain of canyons like the Canyon du Malin includes wide pools perfect for swimming. While specific designated wild swimming spots are not detailed, the aquatic nature of these gorges often provides opportunities for refreshing dips within the canyoning experience itself.