Photo credit : @lestudiocoton
Saint Donat
33km
+510m
2h30-3h00
Spring/summer
1/5*
Physical & technical
The Truffle of the Hills route, starting from Saint-Donat-sur-Herbasse, is a perfect itinerary for gravel initiation in Drôme Ardèche. There are no technical difficulties, it is very smooth at the beginning, slightly hilly towards the end, with a steeper part from kilometer 28 to kilometer 29.
Photo credit : @lestudiocoton
I recommend doing this route in dry weather, as the grass can be high, and you might get your shoes wet quite quickly. It’s a very enjoyable and accessible route for everyone!
You will traverse fields, ride through trails, orchards, and single tracks in the woods. There is no technical section, but maybe 2 short parts where you need to get off the bike to climb some stairs. You will also pass by the Etang du Mouchet, classified as a Sensitive Natural Area.
While you are in the area, you should visit de Château de Charmes a beautiful castle with a collection of furniture and art objects. You should also visit the Prieuré of Saint Donat!
If you are looking for more challenging routes, you have the option to take on the Saint Joseph S, a route combining Via Rhona and wide gravel tracks through the vineyards. There is also an XXL version of this route: Saint Joseph XXL with 117 km and over 3000 m of elevation gain!
For more information –> Office du Tourisme Ardèche Hermitage
Map & GPX
tested
Discover the 2024 edition of the Ardèche Gravel event through my experience of the 145km “by train” 2-day bikepacking formula.
My Equipments
For this itinerary
Best Addresses
(*tested)
ACTIVITIES
ACCOMMODATIONS
Culinary Specialties / Local Products
- Le Caillé Doux de St Félicien - goat chesse
- La Pogne - Orange Blossom Brioche
- La Caillette Ardéchoise - Pork and Spinach
- Les Ravioles - Small squares of pasta filled, most often with Comté cheese
- La Châtaigne
- Le Chocolat Valrhona - la Cité du Chocolat
- La Truffe Noire
- L'abricot
- The Wines with 3 Appellations:
- l'Hermitage
- Le Crozes Hermitage
- Le Saint Joseph
