Saint May
24 km from Nyons via the D94 road and then the D570.
Discover the pretty hilltop village of Saint-May in the Drôme
Once you have passed the Saint May gorges, you have to cross a small green bridge and take the tiny new road that leads to the village of Saint May, perched in a dizzying position above the gorges and their gray-yellow rocks.
Park in the “visitors” parking lot and you may be greeted by a herd of brown goats, welcoming you to this ancient land of the County of Provence. Today, Saint May is still a marvelous hilltop village, dominated by the ruins of Bodon Abbey, which you can reach by climbing a staircase. Founded in the 6th century, all that remains is a portico with a column, a few Gothic windows and sculptures.
Nestling against a rock face, between cypress and fir trees, the village is built entirely of stairways and still has a beautiful little church with a round apse made of real stone, the remains of ramparts covered with climbing roses, a few ruins open to all the winds, dark vaulted passageways, a fountain and sundials.
Here, a very old gray stone dominates, a token of authenticity, sometimes enhanced by a green or pale blue shutter. Who wouldn't dream of living in Saint May, in a rustic house with a breathtaking view of the valley where the Eygues river flows!
What to see
Old picturesque village on a promontory.
Ruins of the abbey of Bodon founded in the 6th century (portico with columns, Gothic windows, sculptures).
Leisure activities
Hiking.
Hotels
A very pretty family-run inn in a charming setting. Special mention for the homemade breakfast and the kindness and thoughtfulness of the hosts! You won't be disappointed!
Accomodations
Hotels.
B&Bs.
Holiday Rentals.
Your questions about the municipality of Saint-May
Following the publication of this guide to Saint-May, you sent us several questions about the municipality. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
How do I get to Saint-May?
The commune is located in the south-east of the Drôme, about 45 minutes from Nyons and 1h30 from Montélimar. If you are coming from the north, take the A7 motorway to Montélimar, then follow the D540 towards Nyons.
From Nyons, continue on the D94 towards Rémuzat. After the village of Sahune, take the D570, which will take you directly to Saint-May. The road winds through beautiful landscapes, sometimes following the Eygue river. Allow an hour's drive from Nyons, as the roads are winding but well maintained.
How do I get to Saint-May on foot?
For hiking enthusiasts, there are several marked trails that also lead to Saint-May from neighboring towns such as Villeperdrix or Rémuzat. These trails offer a different and very pleasant approach to the village, especially in spring or autumn when the temperatures are mild.
What events are held in Saint May?
Every year in July, Saint-May comes alive during the village festival. For a whole weekend, the inhabitants share their traditions with visitors over country meals, pétanque competitions and musical entertainment. It's the perfect opportunity to sample local specialties in a friendly atmosphere.
On Thursdays and Fridays in August, the tourist office organizes guided tours of the abbey. These tours allow visitors to discover the fascinating history of this monument and the restoration work undertaken to preserve this heritage.