Isère, located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a prime tourist destination for nature, culture and winter sports enthusias ts. With its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, picturesque villages and vibrant towns, Isère offers a wide variety of activities and sites to discover. Winter sports enthusiasts can head for Alpe d'Huez and Les Deux-Alpes, while rock-climbing fans will find their heart's content in the Ecrins massif. Lovers of nature and bucolic landscapes will appreciate Chartreuse and Vercors. Other towns well worth a visit include Vienne, the ancient Roman city, and Saint-Hugues-en-Chartreuse, home to the Grande Chartreuse museum, world-famous for its liqueur and its massif. So follow the guide and discover our selection of 16 must-sees in Isère.
1. What to visit in Isère? Grenoble
Grenoble, the capital of the Alps, is a dynamic, cultural city well worth a visit during a stay in Isère. Located in the heart of the mountains, it offers an exceptional living environment, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The city is also renowned for its historical and architectural heritage, including the old quarter of Saint-Laurent, Bastille Hill and its fortifications, and the Musée de Grenoble, home to one of Europe's most important collections of modern and contemporary art. Shopping enthusiasts can also take advantage of the city's many boutiques and shopping centers, while gourmets can discover local culinary specialties such as gratins dauphinois, ravioles and Grenoble walnuts.
Tempted? Check out our article on What to do in Grenoble? 13 must-sees.
2. The Vercors Regional Nature Park
The Vercors Regional Nature Park is a wild, unspoilt area covering over 200,000 hectares between the Drôme and Isère departments. It offers a wide variety of landscapes, with plateaus, gorges, forests and peaks peaking at over 2,000 meters. The park is also renowned for its exceptional flora and fauna, including rare and protected species such as the ibex, the bearded vulture and the wild tulip. Hiking enthusiasts can take advantage of the many signposted trails to discover the hidden treasures of the Vercors, such as the Choranche caves, the Moulin-Marquis waterfalls and the Presles cliffs. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy outdoor activities such as mountain biking, canyoning, climbing and paragliding. The Musée de la Résistance in Vassieux-en-Vercors is another must-see: it traces the history of the maquisards and resistance fighters during the Second World War.
3. What to visit in Isère? Lac Achard, a beautiful lake in the Belledonne massif
Lac Achard is a hidden gem in the Belledonne massif, situated at an altitude of around 1,000 meters. It can be reached on foot from the village of Prapoutel-les-Sept-Laux, following a signposted path through a forest of beech and fir trees. The hike, which lasts around 1h30, is easy and suitable for all levels. Once you arrive at the lake, you'll be amazed by the beauty of the site, with its crystal-clear waters and vegetation-lined shores. Lac Achard is also a popular fishing spot, home to fario trout and Arctic char. Swimmers can take advantage of the beach, which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks. Last but not least, Lac Achard is alsothe starting point for numerous hikes to discover the hidden treasures of the Belledonne massif, such as Lac du Crozet, Lac du Bâton and the Refuge de la Pra.
4. Grande Chartreuse state forest and monastery
The Grande Chartreuse state forest is a unique and emblematic part of the Isère region, covering more than 15,000 hectares, and is one of France's ideal forests for walking. It's renowned for its hiking trails, which will take you to such magnificent spots as the Cirque de Saint-Même waterfalls, the Guiers Vif gorges and the Col de Porte. But La Grande Chartreuse is best known for its monastery, founded in the 11th century by Saint Bruno. The monastery is located in the heart of the forest, in a setting of silence and contemplation. Today, it is inhabited by a community of Carthusian monks, who perpetuate the tradition of prayer and meditation. The monastery is open to visitors, who can learn more about the history and spirituality of La Grande Chartreuse, including a tour of the chapel, cloister and library. See our article 7 reasons to visit the Grande Chartreuse.
5. What to visit in Isère? The Saint-Même circus
The cirque de Saint-Même is an exceptional natural site in the Chartreuse massif, at an altitude of around 900 meters. It can be reached on foot from the village of Saint-Pierre-d'Entremont, following a signposted path through a forest of beech and fir trees. The hike, which lasts around 1h30, is easy and suitable for all levels. Once you've reached the cirque, you'll be able to contemplate the waterfalls, cliffs and caves (the cirque is formed by the erosion of water on limestone rock, which has created spectacular cavities and waterfalls). For caving enthusiasts, there are numerous caves in the cirque, including Grotte de la Diau and Grotte du Guiers Mort. For hikers, the cirque de Saint-Même is the starting point for numerous walks to Mont Granier, the Col de la Charmette and the Refuge de la Scia.
6. Walibi theme park
Walibi Rhône-Alpes is an amusement park located in the commune of Les Avenières, Isère, offering a wide range of attractions for the whole family. Thrill-seekers can enjoy roller coasters such as the Boomerang, Goudurix and Timber, with their dizzying twists, loops and drops. Younger visitors can also have fun in themed areas such as the Beetle, the Farm or the Beach, featuring rides, water games and animals. Last but not least, the park also offers shows and animations, such as the parrot show, the stunt show or the fire show, to amaze young and old alike. Walibi Rhône-Alpes is the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends!
7. What to visit in Isère? Les Deux Alpes
Les Deux-Alpes, a must-see summer destination for mountain lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. A hike on the Mont-de-Lans Glacier offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Lac de la Buissonnière , meanwhile, offers the ideal setting for relaxing and enjoying nature in complete tranquillity. Mountain bikers will have a field day at the Deux-Alpes Bike Park, with trails for all levels and thrilling descents. To cool off on the hottest days, there's nothing like a trip to the Vénéon or La Romanche torrents for an introduction to whitewater sports in crystal-clear lagoon-blue water. The Isère resort offers an unforgettable summer experience, combining breathtaking nature and stimulating activities, whether you want to trail run, shop in Les Deux-Alpes or explore the rich heritage of Mont-de-Lans Village.
8. Alpe d'Huez
L'Alpe d'Huez is a winter sports resort in the Grandes Rousses massif in Isère. It is renowned for its ski area, which extends over 250 kilometers of slopes, offering a wide variety of landscapes and levels of difficulty. Alpine skiers can enjoy the resort's legendary runs, such as the Sarenne, Europe's longest black run, or the World Cup run, which welcomes the world's best skiers every year. For cross-country skiers, there are numerous marked itineraries to discover the resort's wild, unspoilt landscapes. Last but not least, L'Alpe d'Huez is also a lively and festive resort, offering a wide range of activities and entertainment, including concerts, shows, themed evenings and sporting events such as the Tour de France and the Ski World Cup.
9. What to visit in Isère? Vienne
Vienna is a city renowned for its historical and cultural heritage, which bears witness to its prestigious past. The city was founded by the Romans in the 1st century B.C., and enjoyed great prosperity in antiquity, as evidenced by numerous archaeological remains, including the ancient theater, the temple of Augustus and Livia, and the thermal baths. The city was also an important religious center during the Middle Ages: don't miss the Cathedral of Saint-Maurice, the Church of Saint-Pierre, or the Convent of the Cordeliers. Last but not least, the town is also renowned for its gastronomy, which features local products such as wines, cheeses and charcuterie. Tempted? Discover 5 reasons to visit the Vienne Condrieu region!
10. Pont-en-Royans, one of Isère's most beautiful villages
One of the most beautiful villages in Isère, Pont-en-Royans is renowned for its architectural and natural heritage. It is built on the banks of the Bourne, a river that has carved out spectacular gorges, offering wild, unspoilt landscapes. The village is also renowned for its "maisons suspendues", or suspended houses, built into the cliffs, which seem to defy the laws of gravity. These houses are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the inhabitants, who have managed to adapt to a difficult environment. Last but not least, don't miss a visit to the Musée de l'Eau, which traces the history of man's use of water, and offers fun and educational activities and experiments.
11. Grotte de Choranche, one of Isère's most visited sites
Grotte de Choranche isfamous for its concretions, mineral formations formed over time by the action of water and minerals, and for its colors, which are due to the presence of minerals such as iron, manganese and copper. These colors give the cave an enchanting, mysterious atmosphere that amazes visitors . Grotte de Choranche is easily accessible, allowing everyone to discover the wonders of the underground world. The cave is equipped with specially adapted lighting and pathways, allowing visitors to explore in complete safety and tranquillity. A must-see for nature lovers, mineral enthusiasts and color enthusiasts who want to discover the riches of the Isère region!
12. What to visit in Isère? The Museum of the Magic of Automata
The Musée de la Magie des Automates is a magical museum offering a dreamlike interlude for all generations. Over the course of an hour, you'll meet 350 characters who will come to life in marvelous stagings with spectacular backdrops. Renowned for its collections of automata and mechanical machines, the Musée de la Magie des Automates lets you discover the history and manufacturing techniques of automata, through fun and educational exhibits and activities. A visit made even more fabulous when you see that each child is entrusted with a magic wand to wake up the characters... !
13. Saint Hilaire du Touvet and its Funicular railway
Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet is famous for its funicular railway, a unique means of transport linking the Grésivaudan valley to the Petites Roches plateau, overcoming a height difference of more than 600 meters. Discover the funicular's history and construction techniques through fun and educational exhibitions and events. Once at the top of the funicular, you can enjoy a wide range of activities: hiking on the Petites Roches plateau, paragliding flights, visits to farms and museums... Finally, you can discover local traditions and specialities through cheese, charcuterie and wine tastings.
14. What to visit in Isère? Morestel
A city of painters, Morestel is sure to awaken in you a sense of serenity, as much for the authenticity of its old stones as for the striking view of the mountains from the top of the medieval tower. Perched on its rocky outcrop, it invites you to stroll along its narrow streets past 15th-century houses, in the picturesque atmosphere that has enchanted artists for centuries. The town was founded in the Middle Ages, and enjoyed great prosperity during the Renaissance. The town's remarkable architecture is sure to surprise you: the Notre-Dame-des-Marais church, the Château de Morestel and the frescoes in the Tour Médiévale.
Did you know? Morestel is one of only a small number of towns in France to have been awarded the 4-flower label by the Villes et Villages Fleuris (Flowering Towns and Villages) association, and the only one in Isère!
15. Lake Monteynard
Lac du Monteynard is a lake located in the Taillefer massif, a mountain range offering spectacular panoramic views of the Alps and Pre-Alps. Renowned for its scenery and activities, it's an ideal place for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. Take advantage of its crystal-clear waters for swimming, fishing and sailing. Its hiking trails, meanwhile, allow you to discover the region's natural and cultural riches, including typical villages, farms and museums.
16. Vaujany ski resort
The Vaujany ski resort is an ideal place to spend your vacations in the mountains. Located opposite the Grandes Rousses massif, on the slopes of the Rissiou, it has developed harmoniously, combining modern infrastructure with old-world charm. By taking the cable car, visitors can access exceptional scenery at over 2,800 m altitude, in the heart of the high mountains . A little further down, large lakes with emerald-colored waters enchant walkers. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy mountain biking on the Oz-Vaujany and L'Alpe d'Huez trails, while the fir forests provide the ideal setting for a family picnic on a hot summer's day. The resort also offers a wide range of activities for children, including swimming, mini-golf, pony trekking, accrobranche (tree climbing) and discovering animals on the farm. If you're a mountain lover, here are 10 good reasons to come to Vaujany in the tranquility of spring !
What are the most beautiful villages to visit in Isère?
Isère is full of picturesque, authentic villages that are well worth a visit. Among the most beautiful are :
- Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, a medieval village classified as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, with its Gothic abbey and cobbled streets.
- Crémieu, a fortified medieval town with half-timbered houses and well-preserved ramparts.
- Pont-en-Royans, a village perched on rocks above the river, with its hanging houses and steep streets.
- Morestel , a small town of art and history, with its colorful facades, narrow streets and twisted bell tower
What to do in Isère in summer
Isère is an ideal destination for summer vacations, easily accessible by train from Paris and with a wide variety of activities and sites to discover. Here are a few ideas for making the most of your stay in Isère this summer:
- Hiking: Isère is a mountainous region, with numerous hiking trails for all levels. The Chartreuse, Vercors, Belledonne and Écrins massifs offer breathtaking scenery and unspoilt flora and fauna.
- Whitewater sports: Isère is criss-crossed by numerous rivers, ideal for whitewater sports such as rafting, canoeing, hydrospeed and canyoning. The most famous sites are the Romanche, Drac, Eau d'Olle and Vénéon rivers.
- Swimming: Isère boasts a number of lakes and stretches of water suitable for bathing, including Lac de Paladru, Lac de Monteynard, Lac d'Aiguebelette and Lac du Bourget. You can also take advantage of supervised beaches and water sports activities.
- Cycling: Isère is an ideal playground for cycling enthusiasts, with numerous cycle routes for all levels. Take the ViaRhôna, for example, which runs along the Rhône from Geneva to the Mediterranean, or the Voie Verte de l'Isère, which links Grenoble to Vizille.
- Cultural heritage: Isère is rich in cultural heritage, with many museums, castles and historic sites to visit. For example, you can visit the Museum of the French Revolution in Vizille, the Château de Vizille, the Musée Dauphinois in Grenoble or the archaeological site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal.
- Gastronomy: Isère is a land of gastronomy, with many local products to discover and taste. For example, you can sample cheeses from the Chartreuse, Belledonne or Vercors regions, local wines (such as Grésivaudan or Balmes Dauphinoises), Grenoble walnuts or local culinary specialties (such as ravioles du Dauphiné or blueberry tart).
See our dedicated article "The best destinations to visit for a summer vacation in the mountains".
What to do in Isère in winter?
In Isère, capital of the Alps, you'll find some legendary ski resorts. It's a prime destination for winter vacations, with its many ski resorts and winter activities. Here are a few ideas for making the most of your stay in Isère in winter:
- Downhill skiing: Isère has many downhill ski resorts to suit all levels and tastes. The best-known are Chamrousse, Les Deux Alpes, L'Alpe d'Huez and Vaujany, but there are many others, more confidential and just as charming. Discover our dedicated article on the best family ski resorts, as well asthe 10 best ski resorts in France for children.
- Cross-countryskiing: Isère is also an ideal destination for cross-country skiing, with numerous developed Nordic areas. The largest of these are Autrans-Méaudre en Vercors and Plateau des Glières, but there are many smaller, equally enjoyable areas.
- Snowshoe trekking: snowshoe trekking is a popular winter activity in Isère, with many marked itineraries for all levels. Discover the snow-covered landscapes of the Chartreuse, Vercors, Belledonne and Écrins.
- Try a dog sled ride: for an unforgettable winter experience, why not try a dog sled ride? Many service providers offer this activity in Isère, to the delight of young and old alike.
Family activities in Isère
Isère is an ideal destination for family vacations, with many activities and sites to discover. Here are a few ideas for making the most of your stay in Isère with children:
- The Magie des Automates site in Lans-en-Vercors: this unique amusement park offers animated puppet shows, children's games and entertainment for the whole family. Discover the magical world of fairy tales and legends, in an exceptional natural setting.
- Walibi theme park in Les Avenières: this theme park offers a wide range of thrilling attractions, rides for the little ones and shows for the whole family. You'll have an unforgettable day out in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
- Hiking: Isère is a mountainous region, with many family-friendly hiking trails. You can discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Chartreuse, Vercors, Belledonne or Écrins, while enjoying a moment of relaxation in the heart of nature.
- White-water sports: Isère is criss-crossed by numerous rivers, ideal for family white-water sports. Discover the joys of rafting, canoeing, kayaking and hydrospeed in an exceptional natural setting.
- Discover Isère's cultural heritage with your family: Isère has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, castles and historic sites to visit with your family. For example, you can visit the French Revolution Museum in Vizille, the Château de Vizille, the Musée Dauphinois in Grenoble or the archaeological site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal.
Planning a trip to Isère? Check out our article "What to do in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes? The 19 must-sees"!
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