THE VÉNÉON VALLEY
The Vénéon Valley is a hidden place, a treasure surrounded by glaciers and mountain peaks. Located in the Isère region, only two and a half hours from Lyon, the second biggest city in France, somehow entering the Vénéon feels like stepping into a storybook world. Waterfalls drop from each side of the valley, where blue water flows free and deep. Mountains lie in the distance, goats play on the riverbank, there are delicious local beers and cheeses to enjoy, and best of all, there is a river with sections for all kayakers.
The valley lies in the middle of the French Alps, traveling from the Pilatte Glacier to the confluence of the Romanche Valley. The Vénéon is located just next to the Durance Valley, home to the Durance Festival. Just one famous chain of mountains lies between the two valleys, the majestic “Barre des Ecrins,” and the snow-capped peaks, with summits above 4,000 meters (13,000 ft), dominate the landscape. The Pilatte Glacier is the rivers' main source; however, during its 30 km voyage between mountains, several rivers originating at other glaciers join, increasing the flow and guaranteeing water even late in the season. The Vénéon is isolated, wild, and immense. The population has abandoned the high valleys, which are now full of nature and wildlife; a secret, wild garden.
In winter, the upper valley is inaccessible due to snow. Only a few people remain year-round, carrying in food and supplies by ski. Vénéon is becoming a ski-touring mecca, but the avalanches here are pretty scary.
