It is an emblematic summit, visible and above all very recognizable from all over southern Ardèche. But it is also a very easy summit to reach, since you will only need to be well-shod and to scramble for around 500 meters. Children are therefore quite capable of accomplishing this short climb.
If you go up there in the early morning, you will see an orange light gently filling the entire Aubenas basin, to the south, and the Cévennes peaks to the southwest.
If you choose the end of the day, you will see the sun fall on the peaks of the Antraigues region, or the summits of the Tanargue massif.
At the summit, a fairly wide plateau, both lush and dotted with magnificent rocks. The wind is often strong up there, even quite strong. So don't forget to pack a light jacket (or windbreaker) in your backpack.
How to climb the Roche de Gourdon
The shortest route is to park at the foot of the Roche de Gourdon, and start directly along the Roche path.
So head to a very small picturesque road, called Chemin du Grand Pré.
- From the Col de l'Escrinet, take the D122 towards "Mt gerbier-de-Jonc".
- After 2km, turn left towards “Grand Pré”.
- After 1,5 km on this small road, at a right turn, you will find a slightly wider area where you can park. Be careful not to obstruct traffic.
- Once parked, you can attack this path which climbs steeply towards the summit.
- Halfway there, you come to a small plateau where an old concrete shelter is falling apart.
- Follow the ruin on the left to find the narrow path which climbs between the broom and the rocks.
- When you see a breathtaking 360-degree view, you've arrived!
Caution: There is a cliff to the southwest of the plateau. Although this climb is easy, caution is advised.
- Start Point: Gourdon
- Distance: 0,6km
- Positive elevation: 110m
- Ascent: Easy
