From Vizille to Monsec

The start point is in the grounds of Vizille Castle: parking is available behind the “La Locomotive” hall.

(S/E) Leaving the park on the side of the Museum of the Revolution, you come out onto the D524 road leading to Uriage. Turn right and continue to the small bridge spanning the stream to the right of the road.

(1) Cross the stream and continue straight on, following the park’s boundary wall for about 700 metres. The route is very well signposted (yellow markings) with directional signs.

(2) At the fork, take the path branching off to the left and begin the climb, which includes a few steep sections just before reaching the viewpoint (view over the valley).

(3) Continue along the almost level path for about 300 metres until you reach a junction.

(4) Take the path on the right for the second part of the ascent. Note that although it does not appear on the map, the path does indeed exist and is marked with yellow markings.

(5) The slope becomes less steep and you gradually emerge from the forest. Pass the path on your right that climbs from Les Rivoirands and continue the ascent. A little further up, the new path, marked with yellow markers and directional signs pointing to Mont Sec, leaves the old route shown on the IGN map and continues to the right, rejoining it further on. Turn right.

(6) At the start of the tarmac road, leave the path leading up from Montjean on your left and continue almost directly opposite along the path that cuts across a bend in the road, rejoining it a little further up. Turn left and follow the road to the next bend on the right.

(7) Take a good path to the left, then turn left again after 50 metres, heading towards Pléney.
Note that at this second fork, you can take the path on the right (^GR®549) and climb up to the Col de la Madeleine to enjoy the view over the Romanche Valley and the Taillefer Massif.
Otherwise, continue along the good, almost level path to the hamlet of Pléney.

(8) In the hamlet, take the path on the left which descends to the hamlet of Montjean, where you can also enjoy the view over the valley and Vizille, as well as the eastern face of the Vercors.

(9) At the first houses, turn right and continue to the next junction.

(10) Pass the Chemin de Chachatier on your right and continue down the slope, ignoring the paths branching off to the left and right. Join the Chemin des Allas, turn left and cross the neighbourhood of the same name to return to the small bridge at the start.

(1) Cross the bridge, then take the Route d’Uriage on the left to reach the castle grounds and the car park (S/E).

Sturdy footwear is essential. Water can be found in the hamlets, and shelter may also be available.

On your way back, enjoy the castle’s departmental park and its pond (trout and swans). Also worth noting is the Museum of the Revolution, which traces the history of the castle and the Presidents of the Republic who have stayed there. Part of the castle can be visited at the end of the museum tour: allow at least 2 hours.