📍 France

RHÔNE-ALPES HIDDEN: MOUNTAIN VILLAGES AND MYSTERIES

Villages tumbling down mountainsides, chalets perched above the void, Alpine peaks towering over flowering meadows, mirror lakes. The Alps, grandiose.

≈ 6
Days
273
Km
5
Stops
📖 3 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Discover Drôme between perched villages and rivers. Tour Le Poët-Laval. Wander Mirmande. Admire Pont-en-Royans hanging houses. Cross Valence. Alps meet Provence.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Le Poet Laval

golden stone fortress terraced

Le Poet Laval - Photo 1Le Poet Laval - Photo 2Le Poet Laval - Photo 3Le Poet Laval - Photo 4Le Poet Laval - Photo 5Le Poet Laval - Photo 6Le Poet Laval - Photo 7Le Poet Laval - Photo 8
8 photos
Day 1
🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of the medieval village of Le Poët-Laval, former commandery of the Hospitallers with its castle, the Romanesque chapel of Saint-Jean-des-Commandeurs and the ramparts offering a panoramic view over the Jabron valley.
🎯

Activities

→
Walk through the cobbled streets and viewpoints over the surrounding lavender fields.
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Next stop
Distance: 23 km
Travel time: 30min
2
Day

Mirmande

flower-draped village steep slopes

Mirmande - Photo 1Mirmande - Photo 2Mirmande - Photo 3Mirmande - Photo 4Mirmande - Photo 5Mirmande - Photo 6Mirmande - Photo 7Mirmande - Photo 8Mirmande - Photo 9
9 photos
Day 2
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Discover

1
Visit to the perched village of Mirmande, classified among the most beautiful villages of France, famous for its cobbled streets, art galleries and stone houses.
🎯

Activities

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Discovery of the surrounding orchards and walk to the top of the village to admire the sunset over the Drôme valley.
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Next stop
Distance: 25 km
Travel time: 35min
3
Day

Valence

renaissance squares river anchor

Valence - Photo 1Valence - Photo 2
2 photos
Day 3
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Discover

1
Walk in Old Valence: Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral, Maison des Têtes and place des Clercs.
2
Discovery of Parc Jouvet and its French and English gardens.
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Activities

→
Walk on the Champ de Mars and observation of the Kiosque Peynet classified as a historic monument.
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Next stop
Distance: 80 km
Travel time: 1h15
4
Day

Pont En Royans

houses overhang river gorges

Pont En Royans - Photo 1Pont En Royans - Photo 2Pont En Royans - Photo 3Pont En Royans - Photo 4Pont En Royans - Photo 5Pont En Royans - Photo 6
6 photos
Day 4
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Discover

1
Exploration of the village of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye and its Gothic abbey, one of the most remarkable in Dauphiné.
2
Discovery of the village of Pont-en-Royans and its colorful houses suspended above the Bourne.
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Activities

→
Walk in the gorges of the Bourne, panoramic route connecting Pont-en-Royans to Villard-de-Lans.
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Next stop
Distance: 15 km
Travel time: 25min
5
Day

Annecy

lake mirror mountain reflections

Annecy - Photo 1Annecy - Photo 2Annecy - Photo 3Annecy - Photo 4Annecy - Photo 5
5 photos
Day 5
🔍

Discover

1
Visit to the Grotte de Choranche, famous for its soda straws and its underground lake with emerald green waters.
2
Discovery of the city of Annecy: Old Town, canals and Palais de l'Isle.
🎯

Activities

→
Walk along Lake Annecy and relaxation on the banks of the Pâquier with views of the Alps.
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Next stop
Distance: 130 km
Travel time: 2h30

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🛡️ Travel advice - France

Check official recommendations

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-June): Perfect weather, blooming countryside, ideal for all regions, moderate crowds, excellent value, romantic atmosphere.

Summer (July-August): Warmest weather, peak tourist season, highest prices, crowded attractions, perfect for Mediterranean coast, festival season.

Fall (September-October): Harvest season, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, wine regions spectacular, excellent photography, good value.

Winter (November-March): Christmas markets, ski season Alps, fewer crowds, lowest prices, cozy indoor attractions, cultural experiences.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 5 and 7 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in France?

Cultural capital with incredible cuisine, world-famous attractions, and diverse regions from Paris to Provence. Experience artistic heritage, wine culture, and sophisticated lifestyle. The country offers excellent infrastructure with cultural depth and culinary excellence. France provides complete cultural experiences with historical significance and modern sophistication in easily accessible destination.