The ‘Parc Naturel Regional La Grande Chartreuse’ is located in the south-east of France, bordering the Alps, between Grenoble and Chambéry. It is an impressive mountain range and the contrast between the high peaks, the vast valleys, the deep gullies, and the lovely mountain meadows makes this region an attractive location for hikers. Between the wildflower meadows, beech and pine forests, one can discover small villages, chapels, and monasteries, scattered throughout the region. The impressive Carthusian monastery is hidden in a narrow side valley. Above the tree line, at approximately 1600 meters (5249 ft), the forest changes into wild, alpine mountain meadows.

A Hikers Paradise

The Chartreuse is a quiet and peaceful hiking area and a true paradise for nature enthusiasts. A network of footpaths meanders through the valley and the alpine meadows to mountaintops reaching over 2000 meters (6561 ft). Once you’ve reached this height, you will have a beautiful view of the Mont Blanc, the Belledonne Range, the Ecrins Range, and the Vercors Range.

Versatile Ski Area

The ski area of St Pierre de Chartreuse is a small-scale and friendly winter sports area between 900 and 1800 meters (2952 and 5905 ft) in height. It has 24 slopes with a total length of 35 km (21 miles) and 16 ski lifts and aerial tramways. Ancienne Ecole du Villard is located a mere five minutes drive from the ski slopes. The Chartreuse is also a versatile cross-country skiing area, attractive for both beginners and more experienced cross-country skiers. You can go cross-country skiing in five vast areas between 900 to 1500 meters (2952 and 4921 ft) in height. Those who would rather not go skiing or cross-country skiing can take a hike on ‘snowshoes’. The snowshoes are attached to your own hiking shoes and distribute your weight over a larger area. This creates flotation, which ensures that your shoes will not sink as far into the snow and you can enjoy a nice walk through the beautiful winter landscape. The various tourist offices have created dozens of marked hiking routes, you’ll find them here.

Cycling for Persistent People

Cyclers can also enjoy themselves in the Chartreuse. Ancienne Ecole lies between the Col du Cucheron and the Col du Granier. Together with the Col de Porte and Col du Coq, located slightly more to the south, are famous routes from the Tour de France and the Dauphiné Libéré. The steepness of the quiet roads is always changing and most of them are not straight, truly a cycling area for persistent cyclers, or with electrical assistance. If you wish to go mountain biking, you will also not be disappointed. There are plenty of routes available, you can find them here.

Breathtaking for motorcyclists

Motorcyclists in the Chartreuse can prepare for some strong hairpin turns! Driving through vast forests with a view of the high snow-capped mountain peaks. Nature is breathtaking.

Water(and wine)fun

There are also nice trips for the water (sports) enthusiast. At Cirque de Saint-Même you can cool off at three beautiful waterfalls, which are dominated by an impressive amphitheater of cliffs. And about 45 minutes drive away are several lakes with crystal clear, turquoise water with many beaches, such as Lac d’Aiguebelette and Lac de Paladru, and – located along the wine route – Lac Saint André. Speaking of wine … on the slopes of Mont Granier, the vineyards of Savoie AOC wines are definitely worth a taste!

Cities and Culture

Interesting cities such as Chambéry and Grenoble are located in the immediate vicinity of the Chartreuse. Lyon and Annecy are located a one-hour drive away. In the Chartreuse itself, a visit to the Carthusian Museum is definitely worth your time. The enormous monastic complex itself is walled and not open to visitors. After all, it is still inhabited by a few dozen monks who have dedicated their lives to God in silence. However, a tour around the monastery gives you a wonderful impression of the building and the isolated area in which the order has retreated nearly a thousand years ago.