When planning a stay in Boulc, three themes can be clearly distinguished: the history of La Tune de la Varaime, the contrasting landscapes of the Gorges des Gâts, and the specific features of cycling and hiking routes. This lets you decide in advance whether to focus on cultural heritage, nature or a particular trail.
Rock Art and a Long History
La Tune de la Varaime opens up at an altitude of 1,400 metres in the mountain landscape of the Haut-Diois. Archaeological excavations document several periods of settlement, spanning 6,000 years of history in total. The site was used as a sheepfold, where large flocks were kept, mainly sheep and goats. La Tune de la Varaime is listed as a historic monument; its walls bear hundreds of engravings. These form one of the most significant rock art collections in the Alps. It was listed by decree on 10 August 1990. Archaeological settlement, rock art and its former use as a sheepfold come together here. Check the access rules before visiting.
The Natural Environment of the Gorges des Gâts
Part of the municipal area of Boulc belongs to the 1,607.4-hectare ZNIEFF Type 1 natural 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. Warm, dry slopes contrast with cool slopes covered in firs and spruces. Extensive stands of Phoenician juniper grow beneath the cliffs. The rock faces also provide habitat for peregrine falcons, eagle owls and golden eagles, as well as three bat species. The natural environment can therefore be described both by its changing vegetation and by the habitats found on the cliffs.
Distinguishing Cycling and Hiking Routes
The Traversée du Diois à VTT via Les Chemins du Soleil mountain biking route includes a 6.5-kilometre section from Le Relais to Boulc. From Boulc to the Col de Boulc, the route covers 6 kilometres with 450 metres of elevation gain. The distances are similar, but the section to the Col also includes the stated ascent. When planning, therefore, consider not only the distance but also the elevation gain.
The GTV-VTT route reaches the hamlet of Soubreroche from the Boulc bridge via a very steep path. Les balcons de Soubreroche follows a path cut into the cliff above the Gorges des Gâts to a hamlet on a small, suspended plateau. Remarkably large beech trees provide cool shade along the way. Dry-stone walls reinforce the path; some sections are paved in places and cut into the rock.
The GR® 95 from Piémard to Boulc passes through marl terrain that is often washed out, known as “Roubines.” It can be slippery in wet weather. As trail conditions can change, check the route before setting out.
Getting There
Boulc, Bonneval and Ravel-et-Ferriers are now connected by the 800-metre-long Soubreroche Tunnel. Check road conditions before driving.
Discover more destinations: Mévouillon, La Baume-De-Transit, La Baume-Cornillane, Séderon, Peyrins, Loriol-Sur-Drôme, La Coucourde, Beausemblant.
Return to the main travel overview: Drôme.
