In Vassieux-en-Vercors during the Second World War there were fierce confrontations between the resistance fighters and the German army. This walk takes you to the Mémorial de la Résistance on the Col de la Chau. From there it continues through a forest to the Pelouse de Derbonouse, a beautiful plateau. A steep descent to the hamlet of La Mure begins on the Col de la Mure. From there you walk through the beautiful Vassieux valley back to the starting point.
Distance: 11 km.
Time: 4h00.
Grade: Moderate.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: Yes.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed.
Height gain: 502 meters.
Trail: 95% unpaved.
Marking: Partial.
Hiking shoes recommended.
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The Maquisards.
From the village you walk along a steep path to the Mémorial de la Résistance, a museum where you can learn everything about the fierce resistance against the German occupier in this region. From the museum you climb further to the Col de la Chau. After that you continue your climb through a beautiful forest and you pass the Vauneyre barn. A little later you arrive at the beautiful plateau of Derbonouse. You cross the plateau to the Col de la Mure. At the Col you start a very steep descent along a stony path until you reach the D178. In the hairpin bend you immediately take a wide, unpaved forest road that descends further and ends up again on the D178. You cross the road and quickly reach the hamlet of La Mure. From here you walk back to Vassieux on quiet dirt roads.
Download PDF for route description.
Sense for orientation needed from WP1 to WP4.
Steep descent from WP3 to WP4.
POI 1 - Memorial de la Résistance.
The Maquisards of the Vercors were very important for the French resistance. But in July 1944, Vassieux-en-Vercors was destroyed by German bombing; many resistance fighters died, others had to flee. This museum takes you through images and sound to tell this tragic history. The Resistance Memorial was officially opened on July 21, 1994 at Col de la Chau. This is also a memorial location, and a tribute to everyone who fought for freedom. The museum is built on the edge of a cliff, and offers a breathtaking view of the Vercors massif and the battlefield. Another memorial site for the resistance fighters is the War Cemetery (nécropole de la Résistance) of Vassieux-en-Vercors, just before the village. This cemetery contains 187 graves; of members of the resistance, but also of civilians who were killed during the summer of 1944.
Mémorial de la Résistance.
www.parc-du-vercors.fr
