UNDISCOVERED SOUTHERN FRANCE:
HIKING IN DIOIS


9 days, 5 days of moderate hiking in southern France's beautiful Drôme Valley!

Click here to read an article about our special June departure.
Vineyards, orchards, and bluish-purple fields of lavender patch the valleys, while limestone cliffs loom above us in this undiscovered region that links the Alps and Provence. Wild rosemary and thyme fill the country air with an earthy fragrance, and flavor many regional dishes. This is as much an adventure for the connoisseur of landscapes as for the gastronome.

In the town of Die (pronounced dee), a triumphal arch, Porte St-Marcel, and a fortified gateway are remnants from this third century Roman capital. From Die, we wind our way up into the southernmost French Alps, known as le Vercors. While the peaks here barely get over 7000', they are beautifully punctuated by verdant pastures, rugged gorges, ancient abbeys, and dramatic switchbacks that eventually lead to a pass.

Our daily walks average seven miles, and will bring us to the region's scenic and historic corners.Upon our return to Die, we enjoy a tour of the sites of interest, including a wine-tasting trip at the Cave Coopérative.

The delightful wine of this area, Clairette de Die, is characterized by a pale golden color with the faint touch of apples.

The June departure is a day longer and incorporates la Fête de la Transhumance, with sheep from Provence paraded through the town while magicians and minstrels entertain.
Grade: Moderate

DEPARTURES

2008 -- October 3 to 11
2009-- October 2 to 10

Land Cost:
$1,800 (8-15 members)
$1,950 (4-7 members)
Single Supplement: $250

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