Route de Presles is a balcony road in France
Route de Presles is a challenging mountain road located in the Isère department, region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, in France. It’s one of the most spectacular balcony roads in the country.
Where is Route de Presles?
The road is situated in the southeastern part of the country, in the heart of the French Alps.
How long is Route de Presles?
Route de Presles (D292 Road) is entirely paved. It’s 8.9 km (5.53 miles) long, running south-north from Pont-en-Royans to Presles. It's one of the most scenic drives in the world.
Is Route de Presles difficult?
The road is a succession of open tunnels and passages carved directly into the rock, resulting in low and narrow lanes, blind corners, and potential landslides. Be prepared to back up if you meet an oncoming vehicle. It’s closed to bigger vehicles. If visibility is reduced, for example, in a tight spot, do not hesitate to sound the horn to signal your presence (and slow down, of course). On this very scenic route, pay special attention to cyclists, walkers, and other pedestrians out of their vehicles for a "souvenir photo" (or a flat tire).
Is Route de Presles open?
The road is prone to landslides and regularly shuts down for maintenance. Do not forget to check this before you go. Keep an eye on the condition of the road, including the possible presence of stones fallen from the walls, which could make you deviate from your path.
When is the best time to drive Route de Presles?
The best time to take this trip is from May through September. Between Scots pines, boxwood, and young oaks, the Route de Presles climbs nestling up to the edge of the Cirque de Choranche. It extends in Mediterranean scents thanks to a micro-climate created by the cliffs. The route meanders along hairpin bends as the slope climbs over the Gorges de la Bourne in a pastoral landscape at first. It then narrows unexpectedly to go through the magnificent hamlet of Nugues before arriving at the famous belvedere of the Col de Toutes Aures, where a pause will let you appreciate the panoramic view towards the south Vercors and the Isère plain. It has amazing views of the Hauts Plateaux du Vercors. The road continues to the spectacular Gorges du Nan.