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🌳 The Saoû Forest ⛰️

A unique perched syncline in Europe! This is what you will discover when visiting the most beautiful Drôme forests. 15 km from the campsite, the Saoû forest is a forest massif surrounded by immense limestone cliffs hosting exceptional biodiversity. It has the shape of a basin or a stone vessel 12 km long by 3 km wide on average for an area of 2,354 hectares. To the west, the Trois Becs dominate the landscape with Veyou, the highest point at 1,589 meters. To the east, Roche Colombe rises to 886 meters.

The term “syncline” designates the hollow part of the fold, while the two lateral anticlines, rounded parts on each side, have been eroded and have given way to cliffs which naturally overlook the plain. It is a phenomenon of relief inversion due to erosion.

The Saoû Forest is classified and has belonged to the Department of Drôme since 2003. It is a paradise for hikers, climbers and nature lovers. It offers numerous hiking trails as well as numerous climbing routes that allow you to explore the riches of the forest. They will take you, for example, to the summits of Trois Becs, Roche Colombe or even Petit and Grand Pomerolle. You may be lucky enough to spot the varied fauna that lives there, such as chamois, golden eagles and even marmots.

Our campsite is ideally located 10-15 minutes south of the main starting points for hikes in the heart of the forest, near the Auberge du Dauphin, the Saoû village or the Col de la Chaudière.

Warning until July 15, 2025 : Temporary quiet zones have been established in the Saoû forest to protect chamois during the calving season. Access to Roche Courbe (the third peak) is no longer possible until this date, but the first two peaks, Veyou and Signal, remain fully accessible. A diversion has been put in place, fully detailed on Visiorando and indicated by on-site markings. More details here.

Source : www.valleedeladrome-tourisme.com