Between the Vercors and Baronnies Provençales Regional Nature Parks, Roanne Valley alternates between authentic landscapes and villages. Nestling between the mountains, it owes its peaceful atmosphere to its location far from any main roads. This ideal position makes it a wild and unspoilt sanctuary in Drôme and Pays Diois.
The variety of landscapes in the Roanne Valley is an invitation to discover its natural heritage. Rivers with turquoise colours, narrow gorges, marl reliefs, waterfalls, pastures and lavender fields: there's nothing monotonous about this secluded valley. There is also no shortage of activities to delight children and grown-ups alike.
Roanne is the ideal place to indulge in the joys of swimming or a picnic along the riverbanks. Head to the Escharis gorges for example, a must in summer when the heat can be overwhelming. Hikers can explore the various paths in the valley. On the ridges and plateaus or through the pine forests, it's up to you. And why not both, to admire this valley of many secrets?
The Roanne Valley also has a rich built heritage. Saint-Benoit-en-Diois possesses a charming little church, standing on a promontory right in the middle of the village with a beautiful view of the valley. Meanwhile, perched on a rocky peak, the site of the old Aucelon Castle offers an unobstructed view of a magnificent natural amphitheatre. Further south, Saint-Nazaire-le-Désert is a charming little village built around an old Benedictine priory. Don't miss the beautiful view from the forecourt of La Motte-Chalancon Church. This picturesque medieval village with cobblestone streets in bloom cannot fail to win you over. And then there are all the little hamlets, whose charm is as powerful as ever...
