Family trekking with donkeys in the Vercors

Description

I propose a gentle hiking circuit through the Die region, south of the Vercors massif, that will delight the whole family. From valleys where clear water flows to panoramic ridges covered in greenery, the landscapes and resting places never cease to change. In the company of several donkeys, the pace recalls the memories of itinerant shepherds... You'll make short stops with the possibility of hiking and enjoying again once you've settled into camp.

You'll enjoy a real mountain atmosphere for everyone, punctuated by farm visits, swimming, unforgettable bivouacs and wildlife sightings. In short, an enchantment for nature lovers.

During the summer months, I also offer attractive multi-activity holidays for families in the Vercors. And for other itineraries with our furry companions, you can follow me on a family trekking with donkeys in the  Baronnies of Provence and a family itinerant hike with donkeys in the Vercors massif.

Program

D1: Combeau - Gerbeau bivvy (1300m).
Welcome at 10am at Die station. Transfer to the bucolic Combeau valley where our donkeys have their summer home. Picnic near the pond then departure for the great adventure. We cross the rock of Combeau by the Côte Chèvre pass, then we descend to the very beautiful bivvy of Gerbeau which offers an incredible view on the valley.
3 hours walking, positive altitude difference: 150 meters, negative altitude difference: 600 meters, night in camp.

D2: Gerbeau bivvy -Tour hut (1340m).
After a short descent, we follow the Sareymond valley to the ruin of the Désert farmhouse, where the Huguenots used to hold their secret assemblies. A balcony path through a magnificent beech forest leads us to the Col de la Plainie. We cross under the Montagne de Bellemotte, home to numerous chamois, to reach the refuge de la Tour, ideally situated in the pastures facing the Jocou.
5 to 6 hours walking, D+: 650m, D-: 200m.
Night in hut.

D3: Tour hut - Combeau (1400m).
We take a path through the heart of the forest to reach the ridge and the superb alpine pastures of Jiboui. Then, from the Col de Menée, we follow the Grande Leyrie ridge, which takes us gently back to the Combeau valley via the Col de la Lauzette.
5 to 6 hours walking, D+: 450m, D-: 400m.
Night in hut or camp. Dinner at the hut.

D4: Combeau - Vercors Highlands Conservation Area (about 1600m).
We set off to discover the Vercors Highlands Conservation Area. After stalking marmots in the Essaure meadow, we reach the crests for a magnificent panoramic view of the neighboring Dévoluy and Oisans peaks and the massif's emblematic Mont Aiguille. We choose a perfect bivvy site in the middle of the wilderness before sleeping in the silence of the mountains.
3 to 4 hours walking, D+ and D-: 300 to 500m.
Night in camp.

D5: Vercors Highlands Conservation Area.
We stroll through the heart of the reserve, having fun discovering flowers and animal tracks. We can look out for ibex and chamois before heading back down to the Combeau inn. A final cuddle with our donkeys and it's back to the Die station by 5pm.
3 to 4 hours walking, D+ and D-: 300 to 500m.

The itinerary described may be modified by your guide for reasons of weather, organization... These modifications are always made in your interest, for your safety and greater comfort!

The price includes

• Supervision by the mountain leader specializing in trips with donkeys.
• Full-board accommodation throughout the tour (2 nights in camps and 2 nights in huts).
• Loan of tents.
• Donkeys to carry your luggage.
• Return transfers from Die station to the Combeau valley.
• Price: 695€ per person.
  Children aged 7 to 12: 595€.

The price does not include

• Transport to Die, 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from Valence and 2 hours from Grenoble.
• Drinks and personal expenses.
• Cancellation and repatriation insurance.
• Visits and activities not included in the program.
• Anything not mentioned in "The price includes".

Accommodation

• Hut or tent.

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