Roussas is built around a rocky promontory. Among the discoveries that define the village and its surroundings are the remains of a former fortified village, a sanctuary, a botanical trail, and wine-related experiences and outdoor activities. In the region, the Oppidum du Moulon offers a distinct archaeological perspective. The themes vary considerably, from historic buildings to plants and wine, as well as excursions with specific connections to the landscape.

History on the Rocky Promontory and in the Region

The remains of Roussas’s former fortified village, located on a rocky promontory, include a 12th-century castle and several religious buildings. The former castle chapel of Saint-Germain remained Roussas’s only church until 1867. The chapel and the remains of the former castle were listed as historic monuments by decree on July 17, 1926.

The Oppidum du Moulon offers a different perspective as a major archaeological site in the region. It covers more than 20 hectares and has a complex system of five concentric rings of fortifications. Both the site’s size and the sequence of its defensive rings are therefore noteworthy. Together, these historical sites illustrate different forms: the buildings and remains of the former fortified village here, and a large-scale archaeological site there.

Sanctuary and Botanical Trail

A short path leads from the village to the Saint-Joseph Sanctuary on foot. The grounds are open year-round, but access to the interior is limited to certain events or celebrations. The sanctuary houses a rare pneumatic organ. If you would like to see it, check in advance for a suitable date when the interior is open to visitors.

The botanical trail in Roussas offers a different attraction, with plantings of new rose varieties and Mediterranean plants. While the path to the sanctuary leads to a religious destination, the trail focuses on plants. You can choose between them based on your interests, without treating both as the same kind of outing.

Wine, Truffles and Trails Through the Vineyards

At Domaine de Grangeneuve, the cellar offers tastings of wines from the Rhône Valley. Food and wine tastings featuring truffles are available by prior reservation. Vineyard walks, which can be either self-guided or accompanied by a guide, also require a reservation.

The three options offer different experiences: a wine tasting in the cellar, a food and wine tasting featuring truffles, or a walk through the vineyards. For the walks, you can choose between a self-guided or guided option. Since visitor arrangements and reservation requirements may change, it is advisable to check the details in advance.

Outings in Different Landscapes

Vert'Tige Aventure offers a 350-meter-long, 50-meter-high mega zip line. These two measurements indicate the length and height of the experience. Provider details may change, so check the current visiting arrangements in advance.

Quad'Else offers quad excursions departing from Roussas. Depending on the type of excursion, routes may pass along forest trails, alongside lavender fields, and through vineyards. The landscape you experience therefore depends on the specific tour; not every route automatically includes all three. If you prefer a particular landscape, use the type of excursion offered to guide your choice. Provider details may change here, too.

Discover more destinations: Chantemerle-Lès-Grignan, Geyssans, Chanos-Curson, Pont-De-Barret, Donzère, Luc-En-Diois, Mercurol, Génissieux.

For the main travel guide: Drôme.