Randonnée de la Fontaine ardente

Step by step

Over time, the fountain has often changed its appearance: in its most spectacular form, it's a spring from which fire itself gushes forth; and of course, it's this unnatural union of two usually hostile elements - water and fire - that has especially struck people.
At the gateway to the Trièves, the village of Miribel-Lanchâtre, perched atop the eastern balcony of the Vercors, offers magnificent panoramic views over the Drac and Trièves plains.

From the village of Miribel-Lanchâtre (parking nearby), reach the La Tounie crossroads, then head for Essart-Garin, passing through Le Plan de Miribel. At Essart-Garin, climb gradually up to Le Plan to reach the village of Saint-Barthélémy-du-Gua. From here, head for Miribel-Lanchâtre, and the path takes you to Les Clots, before returning briefly to the road leading to the site of the fountain of fire. The route ends on the road to Bayanne, then La Tounie and the village. Between each directional sign, always follow the markings (yellow and green paint). Throughout the circuit, directional signs indicate the direction to follow, as well as walking times and distances from one crossroads to the next.
Avoid descending to the Fontaine Ardente after heavy rain, as the path near the stream is very muddy.