The Gorges de la Nesque in their finest seasonal attire

The light of autumn

It is undoubtedly in autumn that the Gorges de la Nesque reveal their full beauty. In November, the sun no longer rises as high in the sky. Shadows lengthen and sculpt the landscape, while the soft light brushes the oaks, turning them a delicate shade of antique gold.

The cyclists’ realm

The Gorges de la Nesque are a favourite playground for cyclists, who glide along the winding road, following the curves of the combes and piercing through rocky overhangs as they gradually climb towards the Rocher de Cire viewpoint. They savour the last gentle days before winter’s chill dulls the vegetation that the sun still manages to warm.

The colours and foliage of the season

Many evergreen trees—boxwoods, pines, junipers and holm oaks—cloak the sides of the gorges in persistent touches of green, contrasting beautifully with the golden tones of autumn and remaining vibrant even in winter. Downy oaks, on the other hand, keep their faded leaves until spring, when their fall discreetly heralds the arrival of a new season.

A discreet and wild fauna

In this landscape shaped by rock, water and wind, the fauna moves quietly. While herds of goats graze the rocky slopes, one may occasionally spot a hare or a wild boar. Overhead, birds of prey drift above cliffs dotted with thyme and juniper: perhaps you will glimpse a griffon vulture, an eagle owl, a peregrine falcon or even an eagle.

Find a Guest House in the Gorges de la Nesque

Autumn in the Gorges de la Nesque is a unique moment when landscape and colour come together to compose a vibrant, soothing tableau that invites contemplation.