Ascent to the Bastille de Grenoble from the west

(S/E) Start opposite the Jardin des Dauphins in Grenoble, Porte de France. Head left, towards the north-west, then shortly afterwards turn right onto the Route de Lyon, heading due north.

(1) About 300 m further up, turn right onto the Route de Clémencières.

(2) At the Y-junction with Rue du 8 Mai 1945, take the metal staircase on the right. This staircase provides easy access to the path under the trees. The tough climb begins to the Grottes de Mandrin.

(3) An ascending corridor and then three flights of stairs must be climbed to reach the defensive system, revealing beautiful views of the mountains and the valley.
(NB: It is possible to avoid the stairs by staying on the outer path that goes around the caves, but... it's just as steep! At the top, go through the cave exit for direct and easy access to the viewpoints.)
At the cave exit, you will arrive at the Glacis de la Bastille. Turn right onto the tarmac road to reach the fort and admire the panoramic view.

(4) To descend, walk along the south wall inside the fort, between the cable car station and the restaurant. Below, you will see a wide path that leads down to the fortifications and the Jardin des Dauphins. Take this path, heading left towards the east, and passing under the restaurant. At the end, turn right towards the west to continue down the wide path.

(5) Outside the next hairpin bend, under the cable car, signs pointing west indicate "Jardins de France". Leave the wide path and follow the Bastille's western defences downhill. There are a few steps at the beginning and end. Follow the signs and yellow markings. You will come to the Jardin des Dauphins (S/E).

Only the ascent of the trail follows the route indicated by the Metropolis.

Wear shoes with good grip. Do not climb on rainy days or 24 hours after rain, as the ground is slippery.

Walking sticks are useful for the climb. Bring a torch in case of a power cut during the climb to the caves.

Food, toilets and water are available at the top, in the fort.

Descent: if you are put off by the steps (5), descend the wide path for another three bends, then head due west to rejoin the suggested path, thus avoiding the first steps. There will only be one flight of steps to descend near the Jardin des Dauphins.

Bucolic descent to the Jardin des Dauphins. You may see users of the Via Ferrata on your right.

The real purpose of the caves is explained on a sign at both entrances. Technical information about the "glacis" near the car park of the same name.

The view from the fort, above the restaurant, is complemented by explanatory panels. An Accrobastille course (for ages 3 and up) for young people has been set up in the fort.

The city centre of Grenoble awaits you!