Lavaldens walks

A very pleasant hike. First along the Rif Bruyant stream, through beech and then fir and larch forests, and finally in a high mountain setting in the middle of the Cirque du Coiro. Well-marked trails make the elevation gain on this hike easier.

A hike that begins in the atmosphere of the undergrowth and ends in a high mountain setting.

A wild hike around the Vaunoire waterfalls and along the exposed ridge leading to the Grand Armet (2,792m), a viewpoint offering a unique panorama of the Dévoluy, the entire eastern barrier of the Vercors, the Taillefer, Belledonne, Mont Blanc, the Grandes Rousses, and the whole of the Oisans. Much of the route is off-trail and requires a (very) good sense of direction or the use of a GPS. The ridge, almost 2 km long, presents no technical difficulty but is exposed.

I recommend a beautiful, easy hike – the only challenge being the elevation gain – to one of the finest panoramic views in the Matheysine region. Indeed, the summit offers a 360° view of all the mountain ranges of southern Isère as well as the Grenoble region.

The Piquet de Nantes (2,215 m) and the Tabor (2,389 m) near La Mure in Isère are the two highest peaks in the Tabor massif and can be reached separately, but the route proposed here connects the two peaks via a trail that gives an almost high-mountain feel while being easy and very pleasant. It takes only an hour and offers a circuit with beautiful views of the Matheysine lakes and the surrounding mountains.

Le Pérollier is a small peak on the ridge separating the Lacs de Laffrey and the Alpe du Grand Serre resort. This circuit offers unobstructed views of the lakes and the Taillefer, Grand Armet and Belledonne mountain ranges. Note that in June, the meadows are particularly flowery (blue gentians and anemones, among others).

Seen from Lake Charlet and the climb to Tabor, the Sentier du Diable, which winds its way up the south-western face of Pérollier, is impressive, and its name deters many hikers from taking it. However, it is a pleasant trail with a fairly steady climb and is not particularly dangerous. We take it here to climb Pérollier (2,183 m), the third highest peak in the Tabor massif, and make a loop via Lake Charlet for the return journey.

A pleasant hike at the foot of the Piquet de Nantes and the Tabor, with beautiful views of the Obiou and the Grand Armet, passing through three lovely streams, then descending through the village of Fontagneux to change mountain ranges and walk at the foot of the Grand Armet, this time, and see the Tabor. The passage through old hamlets is also very pleasant for lovers of old stones.

From Villard-Saint-Christophe, there are many hikes possible in the Tabor massif, but the Croix de Gouret is the most accessible and offers beautiful views of the Matheysine, Vercors and Dévoluy lakes. The route suggested here is the shortest and offers interesting views, but other routes starting from the village are also possible.

Overlooking Séchilienne and the Romanche Valley, this small family-friendly resort offers a good selection of hikes in lush green surroundings during the summer. It is the Alpe du Grand Serre, in the commune of La Morte. This walk takes us to Lac du Prévourey and then on to Lac Claret, through an environment almost entirely covered in forest.

The Croix de Côte Rotte, visible on the flank of the Grand Serre from the village of Villard-Saint-Christophe, offers a superb view of the lakes of Matheysine and the Vercors. We invite you to discover it on this route through the forest and the mountain pastures. Moderator’s warning dated 24/08/2020: Warning! Issue regarding private property between (6) and (7). Try to bypass the private property.

Don't worry, we are not in the high mountains and the glacier disappeared 15,000 years ago. The route is easy and short enough to be done with children. It is enjoyable and educational, with two panels explaining the geological evolution of the region and the formation of the Matheysine lakes.

This is a pleasant short hike in the Taillefer Massif, which takes you to the edge of a small lake. The return trip offers a bird's-eye view of the valleys, the Matheysine, the Vercors and Belledonne.

A route offering shade, elevation gain, breathtaking views and a variety of alternative routes.

Starting from the car park at the church in the hamlet of Chantelouve, this circular route, mainly through forest, offers numerous views of the village hamlets. The aim is to reach the shepherd's summer chalet and the pastures where the local sheep graze.

Magnificent viewpoint overlooking Le Périer and the Malsanne valley. No signposting on the walk.

Ascent to Le Rochail from the hamlet of Les Bosses via Lac du Vallon. A very interesting route, both visually and technically. Be careful, however, as the slopes are steep and the ridge walk between the Col du Rochail and the summit can be dizzying.

Ascent of the Petit and Grand Taillefer, the first peaks of the Belledonne range, clearly visible from the city of Grenoble. The view from the summit is magnificent, taking in Mont Blanc, the peaks of the Écrins Massif (Barre des Écrins, Roc de la Muzelle, etc.) as well as the Aiguilles d'Arves to the east and the peaks of the Vercors and Dévoluy to the west.

The Sommet de la Cavale does not claim to be on a par with its imposing neighbour, Le Coiro, which is 460 m higher. However, it remains a worthwhile destination, both for its wild and airy setting and for the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. The fairly sustained climb up this long ridge is richly rewarded by the magnificent viewpoint offered by the summit, which provides breathtaking views of the Valbonnais, Dévoluy, Matheysine and Vercors massifs and the high peaks of the Écrins.

Access to Lac de Brouffier via the route with the least elevation gain.

At 3,049m, Pointe de Malhaubert is the highest of the peaks surrounding Lac du Vallon above Chantelouve, offering a unique, unobstructed 360° panorama of all the Alpine massifs.Ibex, chamois and griffon vultures frequent the nearby peaks and slopes. Warning:Reaching the summit requires proficiency in ridge walking (grade 3 climbing, with constant exposure) both on the ascent and descent. The snowfields require crampons and an ice axe, as well as an early start.

All levels of the mountain up to the Pas de la Mine at 2,500 metres: forest, stubble and then red rocks. Cool temperatures near Lac Brouffier.

Facing the Taillefer range, discover a summit overlooking the peat bogs of this massif. This hike crosses a Natura 2000 site and is subject to specific regulations. Please respect them (see practical information).

A walk at the foot of the Taillefer massif amongst the many lakes.This walk passes through a Natura 2000 site and is subject to specific regulations. Please respect these.

Two central viewing points offer views of the massifs of the Northern French Alps, from Mont Blanc to the limestone Pre-Alps of Chartreuse and Vercors, to Belledonne, the Grandes Rousses, the Cerces, Oisans and Dévoluy. Numerous lakes dot the vast “tundra” plateau separating the Taillefer from the Grand Galbert like sapphires. Part of the hike is off-trail, though this does not add to the difficulty: only the elevation gain and distance justify the rating. See practical information.

A superb family hike to discover a mountain lake perched at an altitude of 2,000 metres. The more adventurous can take a dip, while others can enjoy a picnic with their feet in the water. On the way back, you can discover the magnificent little Rioupéroux stream. This hike crosses a Natura 2000 site and is subject to specific regulations. Please respect these regulations (see practical information).

A peaceful exploration of one of the most beautiful alpine tundras, amidst sapphire-coloured lakes and weather-beaten rocks nestled amongst blueberry bushes, on the plateau separating the Grand Galbert from the Taillefer. The ascent and descent to Lac Fourchu follow very good paths. On the plateau, the route meanders as far as the eye can see and adapts to the mood of hikers eager for space and light.Le Grand Galbert offers a magnificent 360º view of all the mountain ranges surrounding Grenoble. This hike passes through a Natura 2000 site and is subject to specific regulations. Please respect these (see practical information).

A very pleasant circular at the foot of Taillefer with beautiful views of the Oisans region. This hike crosses a Natura 2000 site and is subject to specific regulations. Please respect them (see practical information).

A pleasant walk with no particular difficulty, offering regular beautiful views of the Vercors, the Conneste and Senepi ranges, etc., as you pass through a few hamlets and villages.

A beautiful hike where, on the way there, you will walk along the shores of the Pierre-Châtel and Pétichet lakes with a short detour to see Lake Laffrey, and return via the Cholonge ridges at the foot of the Grand Serre.

A climb to the Grand Serre from the village of Le Sapey, following the ridge of the Grande Cuche.Steep sections and several unmarked stretches.

A lovely, cool walk to a remarkable waterfall. On the way back, don't miss the viewpoint over the valley with the ruins of the Château du Serre de la Casse. There are still a few houses in Confolens. You can go further than the waterfall and reach (after a few hours!) the GR®54B ridge walk overlooking the Lauvitel.

This short hike allows you to explore part of the Matheysin Plateau, including one of its four lakes, Lake Pétichet. With no particular difficulty, this route is suitable for families and can be enjoyed in any season as it is well shaded. You’ll discover some lovely views of the lakes and the Grand Serre massif, the Thabor and the Piquet de Nantes.

A fairly easy hike to discover three of the four lakes on the Matheysin plateau and one of the wonders of the Dauphiné, the Pierre Percée. The route is well signposted and marked, partly in the shade and offering beautiful views of the Matheysin and the surrounding mountain ranges (Obiou, Vercors).

A lovely walk above Valbonnais, beneath the peaks of La Grisonnière and Le Coiro. Most of the ascent and descent take place in the forest.

A lovely route between Valbonnais and Entraigues. This peaceful valley, surrounded by high peaks, allows us to discover the two villages and the 14th-century irrigation systems.

Follow the legend of the Pierre Percée (Pierced Rock) on this short circuit that will take you to one of the seven wonders of the Dauphiné.

A circular route along the edge of the Écrins National Park, featuring a lovely ridge walk that is far more impressive than it is difficult. A long route with a significant elevation gain, but no technical difficulty. All this for an exceptional panorama of the Vercors, the Dévoluy and the surrounding mountains with their striking colours.

A lovely walk starting from the Prairie de la Rencontre, near Lac Mort and Lac de Laffrey, perfect for families as it’s very peaceful and offers a real treat for the eyes.

This is a beautiful, easy hike with relatively little elevation gain, which will allow you to discover the lakes of Matheysine and the surrounding mountains.

A beautiful hike at the foot of the Taillefer, easily accessible and offering breathtaking views! This hike crosses a Natura 2000 site and is subject to specific regulations. Please respect these regulations (see practical information).

This circular loop offers a chance to appreciate the enormous effort made by our ancestors, who achieved a technical feat here by building this canal, which still irrigates the Beaumont region today.

This hike, which is suitable for everyone, will take you along a Discovery Trail to a small peak overlooking the little town of La Mure. Crossing the meadows, you will then discover the surrounding mountains from the south of the Vercors to the Oisans via the Obiou. In Prunières, you will visit an old mining well where a magnificent fresco pays tribute to the miners. Paths and trails alternate between shaded and sunny passages.

This challenging walk will take you to the Vizille viewpoint, which offers a stunning view over Vizille and the surrounding area as far as the Vercors massif. The second section takes you a little higher as you continue along the path climbing towards the hamlet of Montsec. At the junction leading to the hamlet of Les Rivoirands, the view opens out towards the Taillefer massif and the summit of the Grand Serre. The descent allows you to explore the hamlet of Les Rivoirands and its few traditional houses.

Route via the hamlets of Monjean, Chachatier and Vaulnaveys. Pleasant scenery and the chance to discover old mountain hamlets. Much of the route has the advantage of being through woodland and in the shade on the western slope, allowing you to set off without being tied to a specific time. The downside of the walk is a bit (too much) of a tarmac surface. Not recommended for those with allergies.

A route of moderate difficulty that takes you from the small village of Prunières to a magnificent panoramic view of the Trièves and, beyond, the Oisans and the Obiou massif.

A lovely walk, less monotonous than it seems, ideal for families or during the winter break and in spring. Perfect for following the scent of wild garlic as you pass through the woods; a rural walk with beautiful panoramic views, as well as old and newer houses that make the walk varied. The circular walk can be extended or shortened to suit everyone’s preferences. 

This hike is not difficult, although the climb is sustained, and will allow you to discover a unique view of the village of Vizille, the castle grounds and the surrounding area. An information board will tell you about the history of Vizille and its geography.

This hike allows you to discover mountain hamlets that were once abandoned and are gradually coming back to life.

A very pleasant site on the outskirts of Grenoble. Ideal for a family outing.

This hike can be enjoyed in any season to discover the Vizillois landscape, the Romanche valley and the surrounding mountains. Very easy with a reasonable elevation gain, it is accessible to most people.