Attractions and Places To See around Lus-La-Croix-Haute - Top 20

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can discover the spectacular Infernet Gorge, carved by the Souloise River, offering steep rock formations and lush vegetation. Another impressive site is Gorges des Gâts, known for its dramatic landscapes, tunnels, and bridges. Don't miss the Gillardes Spring, where the Souloise River resurges, perfect for a picnic. The area also boasts the only high-altitude lake in the Drôme, Lac du Lauzon, and the stunning mountain scenery of the Vallon de la Jarjatte.

Yes, Lus-la-Croix-Haute preserves several historical elements. You can see medieval vestiges like the Grisail tower, the base of the Pinier tower, and the ruins of the 12th-century Romanesque chapel of the Templars. The village also features a charming 19th-century church, primitive Dauphiné houses, old bread ovens, and around 60 fountains. The Maison du Patrimoine (Heritage House) offers insights into the region's past, including its history with the Chartreux and Templars, rural architecture, and historical icehouses.

The area is a paradise for hikers, crossed by the GR 93 and GR 94 trails. You can find a via ferrata circuit and numerous peaks over 2,000 meters high within the Vercors Regional Natural Park. For magnificent views, consider reaching the summit pastures of Jocou Mountain, where you can see the Trièves, Vercors, and Dévoluy massifs, and even Mont Ventoux on clear days. For more detailed routes, explore the running trails around Lus-la-Croix-Haute, which include options for various difficulties.

Absolutely. The Gillardes Spring is easily accessible, even for families with young children, and is a great spot for picnics. The Vallon de la Jarjatte offers a small, family-friendly ski resort that is active in both summer and winter, providing activities for all seasons. Many of the natural sites offer gentle paths suitable for family outings.

For breathtaking vistas, head to Col du Festre, a mountain pass known for its wide roads and panoramic views over the surrounding mountains. The summit pastures of Jocou Mountain also provide magnificent views of the Trièves, Vercors, and Dévoluy massifs. On exceptionally clear days, you might even spot Mont Ventoux.

Yes, the region offers excellent mountain biking opportunities. You can find various trails, including routes like the 'View of Pic de l'Aigle – View on Vercors peaks loop from Lus-la-Croix-Haute' or the 'View on Vercors peaks loop from Saboyer'. These trails range in difficulty from moderate to difficult, providing options for different skill levels. Explore more options on the MTB Trails around Lus-la-Croix-Haute guide.

The Gorges des Gâts offers a unique driving experience along the river, where the landscape gradually deepens into steep and grandiose canyons. It features impressive tunnels dug into the mountainside and bridges, showcasing remarkable engineering feats. The journey through the gorges leads to the charming village of Glandage, making it a memorable scenic drive.

Cyclists will enjoy the scenic roads around Lus-la-Croix-Haute. Routes such as the 'Châtillon-en-Diois – Saut de la Drôme and the Claps loop from Glandage' and the 'View of Pic de l'Aigle – Col de Grimone (1318 m) loop from Lus-la-Croix-Haute' offer challenging and rewarding rides through diverse landscapes. You can find more detailed information and routes on the Cycling around Lus-la-Croix-Haute guide.

The Rocher Rond is a significant landmark as the highest point in the Drôme department, standing at 2453 meters. The Vallon de la Jarjatte is a classified site renowned for its striking mountain scenery, often compared to the Dolomites due to its distinct sharp peaks. It's also home to a small, family-friendly ski resort, making it a popular destination year-round for both winter sports and summer activities.

When exploring the narrow and steep paths of the Infernet Gorge, you might have the chance to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons soaring above the towering cliffs and wild goats navigating the rugged terrain. The area's preserved natural heritage, part of the Natura 2000 European program, supports a rich fauna and flora.

Yes, the Buëch and Lunel rivers, which flow through the commune, are known for trout fishing. They are classified as first-category, wild, and uncrowded rivers, offering a peaceful experience for anglers. Lus-la-Croix-Haute is also recognized as the source of the Buëch River.

Lus-la-Croix-Haute offers opportunities for outdoor activities throughout all seasons. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer provides warm weather for exploring gorges and mountain passes, while the Vallon de la Jarjatte offers skiing and other winter sports during the colder months. The choice depends on your preferred activity.