Walk along the eastern balcony of the Vercors, to the Pas de la Balme, one of the gateways to the High Plateaux of the Vercors. On the way, you will be able to observe ibex. It is possible to extend the walk to the legendary Saracens Wall.
| Department | Isère |
|---|---|
| Departure municipality | Château-Bernard |
| Outing type | Hike |
| Difficulty | Athletic |
| Duration | 4:40 |
| Recommended period | from june to august |
| Environment | Mountains |
| Kilometres | 10 km |
| Altitude upon departure | 1500m |
| Change in altitude | 364m |
From Château-Bernard, take the secondary road towards Arzelier Pass and park at the station. Climb up to the Tourist Office, the first marker is below the chairlift cable. From Grenoble, take the motorway towards Sisteron, exit at Vif, and continue towards Saillants du Gua, the Arzelier Pass.
When departing from the Arzelier Pass, take the chairlift up to 1,500 m (open at weekends from the middle of May to June and from Tuesday to Sunday in July and August). On foot, it takes about 15 mins. Follow the yellow and green signposting to Pré Achard, then Pas de la Balme via Les Poules, Mulet du Curé and Pas de la Balme. You have reached the High Plateaux of the Vercors. Above Pas de la Balme, follow the ridge that leads to Tête des Chaudières, where you will be able to discover the Saracens Wall. According to legend its construction dates back to the Saracen invasion. Return via the same route. Descend by chair lift or walk down (an additional 30 minutes).
