Perched Villages of Drôme
Visiting the Perched Villages of Drôme
While on holiday at our campsite in Drôme Provençale, you’ll find yourself below one of the many perched villages in the area. Drôme is home to many historically rich perched villages. Thanks to their elevated position, these unique villages attract tourists who fall in love with them. These are places that will surprise you too!
The History of Drôme’s Perched Villages
Most of Drôme’s perched villages are fortified and date back to the Middle Ages. At the time, living in these places was a strategic choice for the villagers. Indeed, their elevated position gave them an advantage in case of enemy attacks. Some of these villages were later abandoned before being restored in subsequent centuries.
History and old stone enthusiasts consider these perched villages a true paradise. The churches, chapels, cathedrals, and various Gothic-style buildings always pique the curiosity of visitors and tourists.
Why Visit the Perched Villages of Drôme?
The perched villages in the Drôme region offer you a wide panoramic view. You’ll be able to see mountains in the distance, as well as the magnificent countryside and forests that inhabit the region. Enjoy these magnificent Drôme landscapes and their breathtaking nature.
Visiting these villages will give you the opportunity to visit small pottery workshops. You can also visit the local restaurant, enjoy the charming town market, or explore one of its beautiful buildings. Hiking is also a very popular activity in the Drôme department. Finally, slow tourism enthusiasts will be delighted when visiting the perched villages of Drôme. Simply wandering through its colorful streets and old stone houses will bring you serenity and well-being.
Visiting the Perched Villages of Drôme Provençale from Mirmande
During your stay at our campsite in Mirmande, do you want to explore the most beautiful perched villages of Drôme Provençale? Here’s a small itinerary to follow:
- Mirmande: Start by exploring this magnificent perched village where our campsite is located. Stroll through its cobbled streets and admire the stone houses and beautiful views of the Rhône Valley from the panoramic viewpoints.
- Cliousclat: Leave Mirmande and head towards the village of Cliousclat, located about a 5-minute drive away. This village is famous for its artisanal pottery. Walk through the narrow streets and discover the potters’ workshops that perpetuate the local tradition.
- Poët-Laval : Continue your journey to the medieval village of Poët-Laval, about a 30-minute drive from Cliousclat. Nestled in a rocky cirque, this village is dominated by the remains of an ancient priory. Explore the cobbled streets and visit the ruins of the castle and the church.
- La Garde-Adhémar: Continue your day by heading to the village of La Garde-Adhémar, about a 30-minute drive from Poët-Laval. Perched on a rocky spur, this village offers breathtaking views of the Rhône Valley and the surrounding mountains. Stroll through the streets and visit the 12th-century Romanesque church.
- Valaurie: Very close to La Garde-Adhémar, Valaurie is a charming Provençal village that is one of the most beautiful villages in Drôme. With its narrow streets and well-preserved stone houses, it offers an authentic medieval atmosphere.
- Grignan: End your tour of the most beautiful perched villages of Drôme Provençale with a visit to the village of Grignan. Famous for its magnificent Renaissance castle, which was the residence of the Marquise de Sévigné, it also houses the 12th-century Saint-Sauveur church.