Boulc between rock art and mountain scenery

The Gorges des Gâts and their habitats

The commune of Boulc is part of the 1,607.4-hectare ZNIEFF Type 1 area “Gorges des Gâts et Forêt du Sapet”. In the Gorges des Gâts, limestone cliffs meet a fast-flowing mountain stream lined with white alders. The slopes also differ: warm, dry areas contrast with cool slopes covered in firs and spruces. Larger stands of Phoenician juniper grow beneath the cliffs. The cliffs also provide habitat for peregrine falcons, eagle owls and golden eagles, as well as three species of bats. The contrast between the slopes and the wildlife gives nature enthusiasts different features to look out for as they take in the landscape.

La Tune de la Varaime: history and rock art

At an altitude of 1,400 metres, La Tune de la Varaime opens onto the mountain landscape of Haut-Diois. Archaeological excavations provide evidence of several periods of occupation spanning a total of 6,000 years. The site served as a sheepfold where large flocks were kept, mainly sheep and goats. Hundreds of engravings on the walls form one of the most significant collections of rock art in the Alps. La Tune de la Varaime was classified as a historic monument by decree dated 10 August 1990. The site brings together archaeological traces and evidence of its former use for livestock farming. Check the access arrangements before visiting.

Mountain biking sections with specific distances

The Traversée du Diois à VTT via Les Chemins du Soleil mountain bike route includes a 6.5-kilometre section from Le Relais to Boulc. Another section runs from Boulc to the Col de Boulc, covering 6 kilometres with 450 metres of ascent. This gives you two different sets of figures to compare when planning: for the section to the Col, both the distance and the ascent are specified.

Walking trails and trail conditions

The GR® 95 section from Piémard to Boulc passes through marl terrain that is often washed out, known as “Roubines”. This ground can be slippery in wet weather. Take weather conditions into account when planning, and check the trail conditions before setting out.

Les balcons de Soubreroche follows a path cut into the cliff above the Gorges des Gâts. It leads to a hamlet on a small, suspended plateau; along the way, remarkably large beech trees provide cool shade. Dry-stone walls support the path, which is paved in places or cut into the rock. As trail conditions can change, it is advisable to check the latest information before setting out.

The GTV-VTT route reaches the hamlet of Soubreroche from the Boulc bridge via a very steep path. This gradient is an important planning detail for anyone wishing to include this connection in their route.

Connections through the Soubreroche Tunnel

The 800-metre-long Soubreroche Tunnel now provides access to Boulc, Bonneval and Ravel-et-Ferriers. Check road conditions before travelling. Ravel-et-Ferriers lies at an altitude of 1,120 metres and is considered the highest hamlet in the Diois. Its elevation and the tunnel are two practical reference points when planning a trip to these places.

Discover more destinations: Lens-Lestang, Donzère, Manas, Montguers, Anneyron, Saint-Barthélemy-De-Vals, Pont-De-Barret, Léoncel.

For the regional travel overview: Drôme.