In the surroundings

Recharge your batteries in the great outdoors: walks to explore around the campsite...

Around the Lac du Marandan campsite and Saint-Romans, there’s no shortage of walks to enjoy a breath of fresh air… and, above all, to unwind! The trails running along the Vercors are perfect for all levels, from the leisurely walker to the seasoned hiker. With shady forests, open meadows and panoramic views, every route has its own charm. And don’t worry: even the gentlest walks offer stunning scenery (ideal for those who hadn’t planned on too much climbing…). For an easy and pleasant outing, the area around Lac du Marandan is ideal: an accessible walk to enjoy with the family or for a peaceful end to the day. And why not finish with an impromptu picnic (we’re always fans of the walk-and-local-cheese combo)? The more adventurous can venture along the paths leading to Pont-en-Royans, passing through the region’s iconic landscapes. Between the river, cliffs and hidden spots, the route is well worth the detour! And for those who love walking, sometimes all you need to do is follow a random little path: here, even a bit of improvisation leads to lovely spots. In short, whether you’re in the mood for a long hike or a gentle stroll, you’re bound to find something to suit you… Before recharging your batteries at the campsite to tackle the next day…

Head to Lake Marandan and its water sports centre: your go-to spot for a refreshing and relaxing summer

At Lac du Marandan, it’s hard to get bored… unless your plan is simply to “do nothing”, in which case you’ve come to the right place too.With its leisure centre, the lake is the perfect spot to alternate between relaxation and activities. Directly accessible from the campsite and free for campers, days often start quietly, with your feet in the water or lying on the beach, before you’re tempted by a refreshing dip (tried and tested as soon as the sun comes out). For those who like to be a bit more active, the water sports centre has plenty to offer: paddleboarding, pedalos and other water activities let you enjoy the lake in a different way (you might end up in the water, but that’s all part of the fun). The lake’s shores are also ideal for walks, games and picnics. It’s the perfect spot for a day out with family or friends, with plenty of space for everyone to find their own spot: a nap in the shade, an impromptu game of ball. And all this, with a superb view of the Vercors mountains. And as the day draws to a close, the atmosphere becomes even more pleasant. The light fades gently, the temperature drops too, and the lake takes on a picture-postcard quality. Perfect for a short stroll after a meal or simply to savour the moment… In short, at Lake Marandan, people come to cool off, have fun, relax… and often end up doing a bit of all three at once!

A getaway to the Vercors Regional Nature Park: hikes amidst breathtaking panoramas and spectacular viewpoints

Around Saint-Romans and in the Vercors, there are walks to suit every taste: from gentle strolls to trails that take your breath away with their breathtaking views. The paths wind through shady forests, flower-filled meadows and impressive cliffs, always accompanied by that refreshing mountain air that re-energises you (and gives your calves a good workout). The Vercors offers routes suitable for all levels, with spectacular views that make the trip well worth it. Imagine yourself at the summit, breathing in the fresh air deeply, with Lake Marandan below… magical! And because here, even hiking can be fun, don’t hesitate to improvise: following a random path often leads to hidden spots, unexpected viewpoints, or that little waterfall where you just want to dip your feet. Among the must-see spots in the Vercors, we’ve listed a few route ideas for you…. For your first stop, head to the Plateau de Saint-Nizier: a leisurely stroll across the plateaus, with magnificent panoramic views of the Vercors and its cliffs. Perfect for getting some fresh air and breathing deeply! Next, head for the Cirque d’Archiane: for the slightly more adventurous hikers, this trail offers spectacular scenery between cliffs and forest. Effort + reward: breathtaking views. Near the Cascade de la Pissoire: set off on a short, easy hike, but with a spectacular waterfall waiting for you at the end. Ideal for a refreshing break and a few souvenir snaps. Finally, head for Combe Laval: it’s the perfect spot for a real thrill. This scenic trail is famous for its cliffs and spectacular route. Your calves will get a workout, but your eyes will be in for a treat. So, get your walking boots on!

Reach new heights in the Vercors: discover the via ferrata!

For thrill-seekers, the area around Saint-Romans and the Vercors is a real playground… with a vertical twist! With its impressive cliffs and secured routes, this is the perfect place to get your adrenaline fix… whilst keeping a smile on your face. The climbing sites cater to all levels: from beginners keen to try their hand at the holds, to experienced climbers seeking more technical challenges. And the added bonus? The atmosphere is friendly: no competition, just the pleasure of climbing and enjoying the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. For those who love combining hiking with thrills, the via ferrata is ideal. Kitted out with a harness and helmet, you make your way along bridges, cables and ladders fixed to the rocks, with viewpoints that make you feel as though you’re touching the sky. Be warned: thrills guaranteed, and impressive selfies assured! Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply curious to give it a go, the climbing and via ferrata routes around Saint-Romans offer a fun and active way to explore the Vercors, whilst breathing in the fresh mountain air and admiring the breathtaking scenery. And we promise, you won’t leave with empty pockets!

Water-based adventures and thrills galore in the Vercors: discover rafting and canyoning!

Around Saint-Romans and the campsite, there’s always something new to experience… and you’ll often end up wet (but happy). With its fast-flowing rivers and time-worn canyons, the Vercors is the perfect playground for white-water enthusiasts. When it comes to canyoning, you’ve definitely come to the right place. Here, we don’t just walk: we jump, slide, swim and abseil down waterfalls. Routes such as the famous Écouges, Versoud and Furon canyons offer a true immersion in spectacular, wild scenery, ranging from turquoise pools to steep-sided cliffs. Suitable for all levels, there’s an adrenaline rush for everyone! As for rafting, this is mainly practised on neighbouring rivers such as the Drôme (ideal for beginners) or the Isère (for a bigger thrill). On the agenda: group descents, guaranteed splashes, and a few rapids to spice things up. It’s the perfect activity to enjoy with a group or family, where you paddle whilst taking in the natural scenery all around. Thrills, yes, but always in a friendly atmosphere. What makes these activities even more enjoyable here is the setting: impressive gorges, unspoilt nature and that feeling of being a little cut off from the world… (Well, sometimes you fall in, but that makes for some great stories). Worth trying at least once… and people often come back!

Charming villages to explore around Saint-Romans: from colourful houses to the charm of the Vercors

How about taking a little break from the thrills (a bit of rest is what holidays are all about, after all) and exploring the charming villages around Saint-Romans? Some of them really do have that certain something that makes you want to slow down… and pull out your camera every couple of minutes! For your first stop, you simply can’t miss the charming village of Pont-en-Royans (10 km from the campsite), a real-life postcard. With its famous colourful houses perched above the river, the setting is simply unique (and incredibly Instagram-worthy). You wander through its narrow streets, stroll along the water’s edge, stop ‘just for a minute’ to admire the view… and end up staying far longer than planned. With its heritage, peaceful atmosphere and little spots perfect for a sweet treat, it’s clearly a must-see. Just a few minutes away, make a second stop at Beauvoir-en-Royans, which offers a different yet equally charming atmosphere. More low-key, this village charms visitors with its authentic feel and natural setting. It’s also the ideal starting point for exploring the medieval site, the famous Couvent des Carmes (listed as a Historic Monument), or for strolling around the Jardin des Fontaines Pétrifiantes. With its gardens, cliffs and heritage, the place has a slightly timeless feel that is truly refreshing. For your final stop, discover the village of Saint-Antoine-L’Abbaye (listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France), some twenty kilometres away – a veritable medieval treasure that charms with its cobbled streets, old houses and, of course, its sublime abbey. Strolling through the village is a bit like stepping back in time: with local crafts, shops selling regional specialities and welcoming cafés, every corner invites you to explore. It’s the ideal spot for a peaceful family stroll. These villages are perfect for a peaceful getaway, combining cultural exploration with culinary delights. You come to see the sights, you stay for the atmosphere… and you often leave wanting to return (and with a few photos as a bonus, of course).

A refreshing break: waterfalls and natural landscapes to explore near Saint-Romans

For lovers of nature and spectacular scenery, the area around Saint-Romans is brimming with natural wonders that will captivate young and old alike.

About twenty kilometres from the campsite, the Gorges de la Bourne are a must-see. These impressive gorges, carved out by the river, offer breathtaking views between limestone cliffs and dense forest. You can hike along marked trails, admire the play of light filtering through the rocks and enjoy perfect vantage points for souvenir photos. And for those who love a bit of a thrill, certain sections even allow you to get up close to the rapids: a real treat for the ears and the eyes. Nearby, the River Nan offers an equally charming yet more intimate setting. Its white water and small rapids attract the curious and those who enjoy gentle strolls. You can even improvise a picnic and observe the local wildlife: a true nature break to unwind.

And then there are the waterfalls, large and small, which dot the region like natural jewels. The Cascade Blanche, for example, is ideal for a peaceful stroll combining nature and picture-postcard scenery. As its name suggests, its water cascades down in a pristine white veil from several dozen metres, creating a feast for the eyes and an instant sense of calm!

With gorges, rivers and waterfalls, these landscapes offer an immersive experience in the heart of nature. Whether you’re a leisurely hiker, an aspiring photographer or simply seeking moments of tranquillity by the water…

An underground adventure at the Choranche Caves

To all those who love to combine adventure, curiosity and, why not, a touch of coolness: head to the Choranche Caves. A real must-see in the area around Saint-Romans! The Choranche Caves (20 km from the campsite) are a true underground spectacle. With finely sculpted stalactites, elegant stalagmites and crystal-clear underground rivers, every step invites you to explore. You can even enjoy a guided tour that will immerse you in thousands of years of geology, whilst remaining fun and accessible for the whole family. It’s easy to be amazed by the vast chambers and hidden nooks and crannies. The light, in turn, sets the scene and reveals the magic of the place. Bonus: the underground river and its famous proteus (those little blind fish) will delight curious visitors of all ages. Combining adventure, wonder and a welcome coolness (the temperature stays around 10°C all year round, perfect for a refreshing break after a day in the sun, but don’t forget a light jumper), these caves offer a unique way to discover the Vercors in a different light. You’ll emerge with stars in your eyes, your head full of memories (and, of course, lovely stories to share).