As soon as the snow melts, the Chemins du Soleil offer two wilderness routes through the Pre-Alps on mountain bikes: from the Rhône Valley to the Southern Alps and from the Vercors to Provence.
The cycle route
From Valence to Gap via Crest, Die and Lus-la-Croix-Haute! Approved by the Fédération Française de Cyclisme (FFC), this beautiful, long mountain bike tour usually takes between 5 and 7 days to complete. But its sporty nature shouldn't put off those who prefer a more gentle ride, as the many accommodation options along the route mean you can multiply the number of stages and take the time to discover a region, its people, its landscapes and its surprising heritage at a more affordable pace.
On the way, make your way to Vallon de la Jarjatte. At an altitude of 2453 m, this recently listed site is the highest point in the Drôme department: the Rocher Rond. The sharp, jagged peaks of the Rocher Rond are sure to impress you, as is the beauty of this valley with its distinctly mountainous character.
La Cachette restaurant in Valence
This is undoubtedly the most unusual of Valence's three Michelin-starred restaurants. Off-centre in the lower town, not far from Parc Jouvet, this place is well known and appreciated by gourmets. Chef Masashi Ijichi serves modern, creative cuisine. Combining the best of Japanese and French gastronomy.
Accommodation: Les Négociants hotel** in Valence
Valence, France
The Hotel les Négociants welcomes you to the heart of Valence, just a few metres from the Valence-ville SNCF train station, Place Aristide Briand and the Peynet Kiosk overlooking Parc Jouvet.
A little extra: ‘France's most beautiful detours’.
Valence, France
An obligatory stop-off is the small town of Crest, listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Detours in France’. Originally a castle (late 13th century), the Tour de Crest became a fortress and then a prison from the 15th to the 19th centuries. For the more courageous, abseiling down the tower is an unforgettable experience.
