Vassieux en Vercors (1150 - 1550 m)

Located between 1,150 and 1,550 meters altitude on the Vercors plateau in the Drôme, Vassieux-en-Vercors is a mountain village with intense and historically rich heritage. A premier Nordic skiing destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, it stands as the historic heart of the French Resistance during World War II, with a maquis museum and several commemorative monuments dotting the plateau. A complete destination offering multiple tourist possibilities in summer and winter alike, Vassieux-en-Vercors combines preserved heritage with the wide open spaces of the Vercors.

For cross-country skiing, Vassieux-en-Vercors offers 20 kilometers of trails groomed for both classic and skating techniques starting directly from the village, featuring 1 green Classic/Skating trail of 2 kilometers for beginners and families, 1 blue Classic/Skating trail of 5 kilometers at intermediate level, 1 red Classic/Skating trail of 7.5 kilometers for experienced skiers, and 1 black Classic/Skating trail of 9 kilometers for experts. The area is complemented by a 20-kilometer GTV Classic/Skating connecting route allowing access to other Vercors Nordic sectors. Just 4 kilometers from the village, the renowned Raphaël Poirée Biathlon Stadium offers 20 kilometers of trails for all levels with a permanent archery range, allowing visitors to discover or train in biathlon as did French champion Raphaël Poirée, an 8-time world champion and international biathlon legend. The stadium also features roller skiing trails in summer and various activities: all-terrain electric scooters, cargo bikes, roller skating, pumptrack, and free access to lawns for picnicking or relaxation.

For snowshoeing, Vassieux features several marked trails on the plateau and through forests, including the easy 8-kilometer Chemin des Feuilles itinerary through the forest with views over the plain, and many other free snowshoe hiking possibilities of 6 to 15 kilometers depending on preferences and levels. The Vassieux plateau serves as an ideal access point for exploring the 350 kilometers of trails across the Vercors massif, considered France's Nordic skiing capital with worldwide reputation for the quality and grooming of its Nordic areas.

The resort benefits from optimal snow coverage and ideal terrain for cross-country skiing throughout the winter season, thanks to its altitude and plateau location. Vassieux-en-Vercors also offers toboggan activities, groomed pedestrian trails, and play areas for children. An authentic, family-friendly destination in the heart of a preserved nature park, Vassieux-en-Vercors represents the quintessence of French cross-country skiing, combining easy access to quality trails, historically rich heritage and exceptional panoramic views of the Alpine massif.