Preserved old streets provide access to the upper village of Puy Saint Martin via the “Village perché” walking route. The restored houses in the old village date from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. This makes the place appealing to travelers who like to combine village history and outdoor activity during their stay.
Old Village and Rural Heritage
Seventeen stone agricultural cabanons have been preserved in the commune. Farmers used them to store tools near their fields. Their purpose was closely tied to fieldwork, adding a rural perspective to the village.
The washhouse is also part of the area’s history: it was built in the second half of the 19th century and restored in 2012. Its construction and later renovation mark two distinct periods. Visitors can climb up to the castle ruins and enjoy views across the plain. If you would like to include a viewpoint in addition to the houses and streets, you could consider this climb as a separate stop.
On Foot: Village History or a Circular Route
The “Sur les Pas d’Adèle...” walking route begins at the town hall and presents the village’s history through 15 information panels. It offers a way to focus on the local setting while walking: the panels accompany the route with historical information about Puy Saint Martin.
Another option is the marked “Chevrière - Pigne” circular route. It is 11.24 km long, rated moderate, and begins and ends in Puy Saint Martin. Along the way, views open up over the plains, Mont Couspeau, and the Saoû forest. Compared with the walk and its information panels, this circular route offers a measured distance, a stated difficulty level, and landscape views. You can choose according to what you would most like to focus on: local history along a walking route or a moderately difficult circular hike.
Panoramas and Landscape
On the heights of the old village, visitors can follow lanes and small paths to an orientation table with a 360° panorama. The “Charivari” trail also offers views of the wooded syncline of Saoû, Rochecolombe, and the Valdaine plain. The path to the orientation table provides a 180° view. Together, these viewpoints give an impression of how the landscape opens up from different vantage points.
Cycling and Practical Planning
Puy Saint Martin Initiatives, together with the Club Cyclo de Puy Saint Martin, offers three cycling routes to explore the surrounding area from Puy Saint Martin. This provides another way to explore the area, in addition to the walking routes. Since route details may be revised, check them locally if needed before choosing a ride.
Motorhome travelers will find a centrally located parking area in the village, with drinking water and a wastewater disposal facility. Stays are limited to 48 hours. As operating conditions and fees may change, check the current terms before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Mornans, Claveyson, Cliousclat, MĂ©rindol-Les-Oliviers, Mercurol, Saint-Bardoux, Crest, Albon.
For the broader travel overview: DrĂ´me.
