Bivouac in the Vercors: Complete Guide

The Vercors, a mountain range located between the Alps and the Rhône Valley, is a landscape perfect for bivouac and hiking enthusiasts. With its wild landscapes, panoramic views, and trails, you can escape to the heart of nature. In this comprehensive guide, discover everything you need to know to plan your bivouac in the Vercors.

What are the best times for a bivouac in the Vercors?

The Vercors, located between Lyon and Marseille, offers a variety of landscapes and climates that make camping pleasant at different times of the year. However, choosing the right time to explore this massif depends on your expectations and equipment.

Favorable climatic conditions

You can explore the Vercors all year round, you just need to know the conditions you will face depending on the season.

• Spring (mid-April to June)

Spring is an ideal time to camp in the Vercors. The landscapes are filled with greenery and the temperatures are mild. Conditions are comfortable, especially for hikers. However, nights can be chilly, especially at higher altitudes, and remnants of snow may still be present in the higher mountains.

• Summer (July to mid-September)

Summer in the Vercors is perfect for sun lovers. The climate is warm and dry, making the trails easily accessible. Be careful, however, about how busy the sites are, as this period attracts many visitors. The nights remain pleasant, but be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during your hikes.

• Autumn (mid-September to October)

Autumn is a beautiful season in the Vercors, with mild temperatures and vibrant colors that make the landscape magnificent. It's a perfect time for those looking to avoid the crowds while still enjoying favorable weather conditions.

• Winter (November to mid-April)

Winter in the Vercors is reserved for experienced adventurers. The high plateaus, such as the Grand Veymont area (2,341 m above sea level), can be covered in snow, making conditions difficult. With the right equipment and a good understanding of the risks associated with snow and cold, this period can be ideal for unique experiences. I invite you to consult the article: Bivouac in the mountains .

For a stress-free stay, choose between mid-May and mid-October if you're a beginner or want to avoid extreme conditions. Don't forget to check the weather forecast before you leave and adjust your equipment accordingly.

Natural events and local wildlife

The Vercors is renowned for its local wildlife and biodiversity. It is home to a wide variety of fauna, ranging from high mountain species such as the ibex and black grouse to iconic animals such as the wolf, lynx, and even the golden eagle. The massif is home to 72 species of mammals, including 29 bats, 140 species of nesting birds, and 25 species of reptiles and amphibians, making it a true haven for wildlife.

In terms of flora, the Vercors region boasts 1,800 plant species, including 85 protected species, such as the lady's slipper and the wild tulip. This diversity makes the Vercors region a perfect place for lovers of nature and wide open spaces.

How to prepare for a successful bivouac in the Vercors?

Choosing essential equipment

To successfully bivouac in the Vercors and fully enjoy this adventure, it is essential to prepare your equipment well.

Each person must provide personal equipment: a sleeping bag suitable for night temperatures, a self-inflating mattress for greater comfort, warm clothing in several layers, a headlamp and a Dometic water tank (11 liters) .

Additionally, an iKamper Roof Tent is essential for quick setup and waterproofing, a Disco Series Stove , and Tactical Foodpacks for your various meals throughout the day. Don't forget a first aid kit, a survival blanket, a multi-function knife, and a phone with an EcoFlow Portable Power Station to charge all your devices.

Finally, to avoid getting lost in the Vercors, bring a paper map and, if possible, a compass. While digital tools are useful, it's best to have a paper map in case your battery runs out. Proper preparation is important for a safe and unforgettable experience.

How to choose the right bivouac site in the Vercors?

The first important thing to know is that camping is permitted around the Hauts Plateaux du Vercors Nature Reserve, but only between 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. When choosing your location, it's best to plan your bivouac in advance. Flat areas are a good option, especially along hiking trails.

In the reserve, bivouacking is strictly limited to the areas around designated cabins and long hikes. When pitching your rooftop tent, choose a location sheltered from the wind.

An ideal location is secure, protected from the wind, located at a moderate altitude to limit temperature fluctuations, and, if possible, in a magnificent natural setting. Carefully preparing your bivouac site guarantees a pleasant night while respecting the surrounding nature.

Suggested itineraries for a bivouac hike in the Vercors

2-day itinerary to Pas des Chattons

This hike is distinguished by the fact that it is very sporty. Some sections can be surprising in their difficulty, but the efforts are largely rewarded by exceptional panoramas, notably of Mont Aiguille, which is an emblematic mountain of the Vercors region.

The route starts at the Col de Charlotte, easily accessible from Lyon, just a 2-hour drive away. This route is perfect for a weekend, offering a beautiful diversity of landscapes and ideal locations for a bivouac in the great outdoors.

2-day trek with ascent of the Grand Veymont

This Vercors trek leads to the summit of Grand Veymont, the highest point in the highlands, at 2,341 meters above sea level. With its endless panoramas and the possibility of bivouacking at altitude, this two-day hike is a must for campers.

There are several routes to reach the Grand Veymont, each offering a different and unique experience:

• Via the hamlet of La Bathie : a car park is available at the foot of the Pas des Bachassons. This provides access to the Grand Veymont via the Pas des Chattons, located to the south.
• From Gresse-en-Vercors : via the Pas de la Ville, east side, this route is more technical but it is the shortest route.
• From Les Charbonnières : crossing the high plateaus to Pas de la Ville, on the west side, this longer route is aimed at hardy walkers.