Grand Som (2026m) walks

This is definitely the easiest and shortest way to climb the Grand Som. Caution for those prone to vertigo: between (2) and (3), the walk becomes a climb in places. The passages are often narrow and can be daunting.

This is a loop trail that passes through the Grand Som and, to avoid the crowds, descends along the Arête de la Suiffière (a little exposed but easy), then joins the Col de Freney (and the forest) and, via a path with numerous hairpin bends, returns just above La Correrie, our starting point.

A wilder approach to this iconic peak of the Grande Chartreuse, which will require some route finding to reach the starting point.

This is a classic circular route, both fun and demanding, but without any major difficulties. It was found almost unchanged in Chartreuse - Vercors: Les randonnées du vertige by Pascal Sombardier. As this cult book is now out of print and virtually impossible to find, I think it is worth mentioning it here, with what I hope is a clear description of the route. This circular path is strongly discouraged for people who are afraid of heights or who are unsure of themselves on steep terrain. It is therefore not suitable for children either. See the Practical Information section. Rated very difficult from (3) to (4) and then to (5).

This extensive circular route will take you to one of the most legendary peaks in Chartreuse. Technical passages, magnificent views of the massif and the Chartreuse monastery, wild trails: it has it all!

A magnificent hike that combines a natural section starting with a climb through the forest, continuing over the pleasant Pas de La Suiffière and then the easy but aerial ascent of the south ridge of the Grand Som, with a cultural section exploring the Monastère de la Grande Chartreuse, a veritable work of architectural art.

Two stunning panoramic views in the heart of the Chartreuse, a well-balanced walk combining fairly steep sections with pastures and beautiful forests.

A lovely circular route taking in two peaks, across a wide variety of terrain. You’ll encounter woodland, scree slopes, rocky outcrops and mountain pastures.

A route combining classic GR®-style paths with more secluded tracks for a circuit around the Som mountains. No particular difficulties; a varied route offering magnificent views of the Grand Som ridge and the wild Chartreuse landscape as you return beneath its western face, after looking down on the monastery from the summit and passing through the magnificent Suiffière pass. Watch out for herds on the way back to Bovinant or at the Col de la Ruchère.

This third stage of the Tour of the Ten Highest Peaks of the Chartreuse links Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse to Saint-Pierre-d’Entremont, via the Grand Som. There are no technical difficulties, unless you decide to follow the southern ridge of the Grand Som, which offers some very beautiful and exposed rock climbing.

This itinerary describes a circular route that takes in the ten highest peaks of the Chartreuse. Covering the massif’s most classic hikes, it is divided into five stages, with half-board accommodation available. Allow around ten hours’ walking per day, with a few unavoidable technical sections. Naturally, the views over the Chartreuse and beyond are incredible. Throughout the route, you’ll discover magnificent flora and fauna, as well as a few geological and archaeological gems that are well worth a detour. The ten peaks are merely a pretext for a major hike in an exceptional setting.