Saint-Paul-lès-Monestier walks

A charming, easy walk offering beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. In spring, you’ll enjoy the sound of the streams flowing down from the mountains.

This is a relatively easy short hike that will allow you to discover beautiful views of the eastern slope of the Vercors, the Obiou massif and the Gresse valley as far as Grenoble and the Chartreuse. You will also discover the mountain habitat of this part of the Isère as you pass through the small hamlets towards Saint-Paul-lès-Monestier.

This is a beautiful, easy walk offering panoramic views of the Trièves basin and the surrounding peaks. The route and description were modified on 21 April 2022.

A new short circular walk, ideal for a half-day in winter or spring, takes you along paths to a magnificent viewpoint over the Monteynard dam. You will also enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains throughout the route.

Starting from Col de Fraisse above Monestier-de-Clermont, visit two viewpoints: La Roche, which overlooks Lake Monteynard, and Côte Rouge, facing the famous Mont Aiguille. On the way, pass by the beautiful beech tree called Arbre à Mimi.

Above Gresse-en-Vercors, starting from the Serpaton car park, a circular route towards the Rocher de Baconnet and the Roc de Cognière. It offers stunning views: - to the west over the Gresse Valley and Le Grand Veymont, - to the south over Mont Aiguille, - to the east over Monestier-de-Clermont with the A51 tunnel and viaduct, Lake Monteymard, the Corniche du Drac, the Écrins and the Dévoluy.

This hike takes you on a short detour into the Trieves region, where you will visit two remarkable sites: the Monteynard dam and the Château d'Ars. All this under the watchful eye of La Peyrouse and with a breathtaking view of Lake Notre-Dame de Commiers.

This is a hike that starts with a ferry crossing. The objective is to take the two elegant bridges. The first bridge crosses the Drac. The second bridge crosses the Ebron. Satisfactory markings.

A circular hike to do when the boat is not crossing the lake (out of season) or if you want to take your time crossing the footbridges over two days. See my other hike: Drac footbridge hike. I do not recommend this hike for people who are afraid of heights or have a phobia of falling!

From Gresse-en-Vercors, via the Pas du Serpaton, access to the Rocher du Baconnet via the ridges offers a 360° panorama of the cliffs of the Vercors barrier to the west, mont Aiguille to the south, the Dévoluy and Écrins massifs to the east, and the Chartreuse and Belledonne massifs to the north.

This short hike starting from the village of Gresse-en-Vercors offers beautiful views of the cliffs on the eastern side of the Vercors, from the Grand Veymont to the Moucherolle, then on to the Serpaton and the Rocher du Baconnet. The route, which often runs through woodland, will also allow you to discover two rather curious little peaks: Le Palais and Château Vert, which are small cliffs rising above a magnificent forest.

A short circuit to warm up your legs as soon as the good weather arrives. No particular difficulty and some beautiful views of the mountains surrounding the Trièves!

Hike accessible to all, practically all year round, offering beautiful views but requiring a good knowledge of orientation. Can also be done on snowshoes. No signposts between Pas du Serpaton and Chaumeil.

A ridge trail offering beautiful views of the eastern Vercors, Dévoluy and Trièves.

I suggest a new hike, perfect for a half-day, with a magnificent viewpoint at the summit of Côte Rouge.

This short hike will allow you to discover this part of the Trièves. First, at the highest point, you will enjoy a magnificent 360° view of the Vercors, the Obiou and the western slope of the Senepy. You will then be able to see the Drac valley, Lake Monteynard and the route of the little train from La Mure along the mountainside.

This is a fairly easy hike that takes you to the foot of the Grand Veymont. Beautiful views: from Mont Aiguille to the cliffs of the Vercors barrier.

This easy hike starts from La Ville, a hamlet or district of Gresse-en-Vercors, on the edge of the ski resort, and offers beautiful views of the cliff chain to the west of Gresse-en-Vercors, as well as Mont Aiguille when you reach the Col de l'Allimas. Having done this walk in June, the flora was lush and it was a real treat.

This beautiful hike, marked in green and yellow from La Ville, a district or hamlet of Gresse-en-Vercors, offers beautiful views of the village and its plateau, as well as the Grand Veymont and Mont de l'Aiguille. However, it should be avoided in winter as it is impassable.

Make no mistake, this short circuit is a real hike. The climb is steep in places but fortunately short, and the passage over the Ferrière ridge is a real treat (you are almost directly above the Gresse valley and the village of Miribel Lanchâtre). The view from the summit is well worth the detour.

A vertiginous and rarely-taken loop, where you come across ibexes and chamois at every hairpin bend. Make sure you always have a helmet (ibexes love to send stones flying), as well as crampons and an ice axe until late in the season, as névés remain in place fairly long within the steep Serre-Brion couloir. It is best to start your hike early in the morning so that snow is still hard when reaching this couloir.

A magnificent walk beneath the limestone walls of the Vercors.

This relatively easy hike offers beautiful views of the eastern flank of the Vercors massif, the Drac valley and the Monteynard dam lake in its first, open section, as well as the Matheysine area towards the peaks overlooking the Matheysine lakes. The second part, which is more shaded, will take you through the surrounding hamlets and past some of the engineering structures of the La Mure tourist railway.

This walk, the route of which (fully signposted with red and yellow markers) is largely shaded, is particularly pleasant in hot weather. It is strongly advised against undertaking this walk in winter, as the first section runs alongside the Brisou stream on hillsides that are very steep in places. Furthermore, some streams, which are dry in summer, may not be crossable in winter. This is not a family walk suitable for young children!

A circular route mainly through woodland with magnificent panoramic views. Some sections are steep, though not precipitous. Note: this hike begins with a 125-metre descent and ends with a 125-metre climb, but the setting is lovely and it’s a very pleasant walk.

This easy half-day circuit takes you from the bottom of the Gresse valley to the Miribel-Lanchâtre plateau, passing by one of the seven wonders of the Dauphiné: the Fontaine Ardente. On the plateau, there are some beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

A magnificent hike offering fabulous views. The Chartreuse to the north, the Dévoluy to the south and the long eastern barrier of the Vercors with Mont Aiguille and Grand Veymont.

This beautiful hike takes you to one of the passes of the Vercors and offers an exceptional view of the Petite Moucherolle and Grande Moucherolle, which dominate Corrençon and Villard de Lans on the other side.

A beautiful loop around Grand Veymont starting from the bottom of the Gresse-en-Vercors slopes. Breathtakingly beautiful scenery throughout the hike. All the paths are well-marked GR® trails, so it's impossible to get lost!

Two-day route starting from Champ de l'Herse. It passes through the Brisou ridge with a first panorama before reaching the Grand Veymont (2341m), which offers a magnificent view of the Vercors high plateaus, Mont Aiguille and the valley. Good chances of seeing ibex and marmots.

The first stage starts at Champ de l'Herse and goes to Pas des Bachassons. It passes by the Brisou ridge, offering a first panoramic view. There is a climb of over 1,000 metres, but you will be rewarded by the beauty of Pas des Bachassons.

A beautiful hike in the Vercors Massif on its eastern face, reputed to be difficult. The imposing mass of the Grand Veymont will be your constant companion along the way, sometimes in the shade, sometimes on stony and uneven terrain.

This magnificent figure-eight route combines the ascent of Grande Moucherolle, the second highest peak in the Vercors, with the crossing of two challenging passes and the discovery of the Rocher des Deux Sœurs ridges. This hike includes two short climbing sections (less than 5 metres each), which are not particularly difficult but are exposed. A good quarter of the route is on poorly marked paths, requiring a good sense of direction even though orientation is easy. Marmots and ibex are on the menu.

The highest point in the Vercors at 2341 m, the Grand Veymont offers 360° panoramic views.

This is a short hike to discover the eastern slope of the Vercors, best done after the snow has melted as some sections can be very tricky. You will pass under the cliffs of Grand Veymont, catch a glimpse of Mont Blanc and enjoy a panoramic view of this magnificent slope of the Vercors massif with its impressive cliffs.

A magnificent, fairly challenging traverse, taking in the Grande and then the Petite Moucherolle, ascending via the Col des Deux Sœurs and descending via the Pas de la Balme, starting from the Arzelier resort. Several sections require caution, either due to the steepness of the rocky outcrops to be crossed or the deterioration of the historic path, but the views, both along the route and from the summits, more than make up for the effort required. This hike is classified as very difficult for the reasons explained in the “Practical Information” section.

A superb, quick walk to the Drac footbridge, along the north bank of the river of the same name, south of Lake Monteynard. Beautiful views of the lake and river, until you cross the Himalayan footbridge before returning.

A circular hike to do when the boat is not crossing the lake (out of season) or if you want to take your time crossing the footbridges over two days. See the Pont de Brion and Ébron footbridge hike. This hike is not recommended for people who are afraid of heights or have a phobia of falling.

This is an ideal walk for spring or winter when snow makes the peaks inaccessible for hiking but the mid-mountain range remains clear. Le Goutaroux offers superb views of all the surrounding mountain ranges: Mont Aguille and Vercors, Trièves, the Alps as far as Grenoble and Chartreuse. This circular route is an alternative to the return trip from Trézanne.

A hike that visits one of the 7 Wonders of Dauphiné.

Day3 of our traverse: setting off from the Cabane de la Peyrouse to reach Gresse en Vercors. We go round the Grand Veymond to climb back up onto the plateau via the Col des Bachassons (water), then stop at the Cabane de l’Aiguillette.

This walk is a variation on the classic tour of the Himalayan footbridges of Lake Monteynard, which does not require a boat trip (for a fee) to return to the starting point. In addition, this route takes you to the Pas du Berlioz (very beautiful view of the lake) and the Pont de Brion. It is hardly any longer than taking the boat, as you don't need to go all the way to the pier, which is quite far away. However, part of the route is a return trip.

A magnificent hike 35 km from Grenoble, with no difficulty, offering 360° views of the surrounding mountains. The climb to this summit is a magnificent hike through the mountain pastures (one of the largest in the region).

This circular hike will take you up the Petit Veymont and then the Grand Veymont, offering magnificent landscapes and impressive views of Mont Aiguille and the Vercors ridge, not to mention the Écrins Massif in good weather. The presence of numerous animals (chamois, marmots and ibex) will add to the enjoyment of this long hike.

This walk in Matheysine offers a splendid 360° panorama of the Chartreuse, Belledonne, Vercors and Dévoluy at the summit. Best enjoyed on a very clear day to get the most out of it.

A pleasant circuit on the eastern flank of the Vercors, which will take you close to the Hauts Plateaux nature reserve and Mont Aiguille.

A long and beautiful hike, like an orienteering game, in search of huts (shepherds’ or hikers’) and precious springs on the Vercors High Plateaus. Fabulous scenery guaranteed. The highlight, undoubtedly the most beautiful natural site on the Hauts Plateaux, is the Plaine de la Queyrie, where I’d love to be reincarnated as a marmot, with its carved tree and its stunning Roman quarry.

A short half-day walk that will take you through the hamlets in the commune of Le Gua and offer some views of the Gresse Valley.

A less popular summit than Grand Veymont, offering a bit of variety in the high plateaus of the Vercors. Breathtaking views, particularly of Mont Aiguille, which dominates the entire start of the hike and part of the return journey. Marmots, ibex and choughs will be there to greet you after the ascent of Pas du Fouillet. Dogs are strictly prohibited on this hike as it is located in the Vercors high plateau nature reserve.

This hike takes you to the Grand Veymont, the highest peak in the Vercors, via a circular route exploring the ravines at its base. Look out for ibex and marmots! The circular route can be walked in either direction. There are no particular technical difficulties on the route apart from in the ravines, which may require you to use your hands for a bit of scrambling.

A pleasantly varied loop between vegetation and rock, spiced up by the crossing of a scree slope and a passage with cables at Pas du Fouillet. To be done outside the snowy season.Return facing the imposing block formed by Mont Aiguille. CAUTION! The scree slope and Pas du Fouillet between points (3) and (5) are currently closed (July 2025). At point (3), continue straight ahead to reach the Pas des Bachassons via the Serres and Maupas ravines, point (6), from where you can reach the Cabane des Aiguillettes, point (6), for a picnic. Then, you will need to return to the Pas des Bachassons to continue the hike.

Le Sénépy and its exceptional panorama from Mayres-Savel via the ridges.

This superb ship, isolated from the main Vercors mountain range, remains docked and admired by all, especially its majestic bow, which dominates the villages of Trézanne and Richardière.

The tour of Mont Aiguille remains a classic, but to appreciate this "ocean liner", what could be better than gaining some height? The view is not only of Mont Aiguille, as from the summit of Goutaroux you have a 360° view: from Grenoble to Trièves, as far as Dévoluy on one side. From the Vercors ridges to the Chartreuse on the other side.

A challenging hike that takes you over one of the passes on the eastern edge of the Vercors. The final climb is difficult. Please be careful

This is an aerial hike, partly off-trail on the ridge extending from the Gerbier to Roc Cornafion, where you can encounter the wildlife of the Vercors, particularly ibex and chamois. The difficulty of the hike is due to its length, the absence of a trail for a good quarter of the route, and the short climb leading to Roc Cornafion.

A short walk suitable for all seasons, offering a chance to discover the many facets of the Grenoble conurbation. The route takes you through the village of Saillant du Gua and its numerous hamlets, the Gresse Valley and a little-known waterfall, which usually flows in spring when the snow melts. Please note that this walk is easily accessible by public transport via TAG bus route 17; get off at the terminus.

This route allows you to explore, in half a day, the rather wild wooded ridge of the Grand Brion, situated between Vercors and Matheysine. Fortunately, beautiful meadows offset the austere nature of this forested massif.

The fourth and final day of the circular route leading from the L'Aiguillette hut at the foot of the Grand Veymont to the car park at the Corrençon-en-Vercors ski stadium, where we will have left a car.

This relatively short and easy hike takes you to two modest peaks offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. It also takes you to one of the largest mountain pastures in the department.

There are several ways to reach the foot of the Grande Moucherolle, which is really the main attraction of this hike. This route takes you along the fastest slopes. A superb, aerial hike, but not very technical or dangerous, with an approach via the ski slopes and, at the top, a breathtaking panorama. Please note: this hike is classified as Very Difficult for an average hiker (IBP = 111) due to steep slopes and some exposed sections.

The ascent of Petite Moucherolle involves a short climb but is not technically difficult.

The second day takes you to the highest point of the route: Le Grand Veymont. It offers a magnificent view of the Vercors high plateaus, Mont Aiguille and the valley. There is a good chance of seeing ibex and marmots!

A hike through the forest and across the sharp limestone pavement, in the realm of the Vercors cave explorers, off the beaten track, with few markings and no signs. The view opens up between the two huts, offering a spectacular view of the wild Vercors. The climb to the Combe du Fer hut from the car park requires a GPS and a map (offline!) as there are many paths and the various junctions are not described here.

A very pretty, easy hike that can be done as a round trip with the family.

Pas Ernadant is located on the ridges of northern Vercors, between Rochers de la Balme and Rocher du Playnet. The start of the route follows theGR® 91 "Traversée du Vercors" to Cabane de Carette, then the unmarked and little-used route allows you to discover the wilder side of this region.

A pleasant, easy family walk through clearings and forests, at the gateway to the Hauts-Plateaux Nature Reserve. A renowned Nordic site, with an 18-hole golf course, a roller ski track, a professional shooting range and numerous marked trails, this area is a delight for hikers, golfers, biathletes, mountain bikers and runners alike.

Leaving Corrençon, you will reach the Crête des Rochers de la Balme via theGR® trail at the start, then via a steeper climb to the summit.

This fairly varied loop between Corrençon and Herbouilly (two of the gateways to the Nordic ski area with Bois Barbu) takes you along wide forest tracks and more peaceful forest paths. In places (at the start and finish), it runs alongside the golf course and roller ski tracks. It reaches its highest points at Pas de l'Âne and Pas de la Sambue. It passes the Roybon inn and the Herbouilly cross-country ski centre before taking the Pas Saint-Martin path and crossing the Herbouilly plain. On the way back, don't miss the view of the Grande and Petite Moucherolle, the Tête des Chaudières and the ski slopes of Villard-de-Lans and Corrençon-en-Vercors.

The Loubière forest covers the eastern slope of Corrençon, opposite the Grande Moucherolle. A visit here allows you to discover various natural and cultural attractions.

A beautiful, uncrowded summit, reached by climbing up a wild valley and a path off the trail.

A circular walk around three key sites in Corrençon-en-Vercors: the Champ de la Bataille, the golf course and the biathlon stadium.

A trail at the gateway to the Vercors plateaus, with the outward journey on theGR®91and the return via La Coinchette. Most of the route is through woodland, offering views of the Vercors ridges from Darbounouse. The return journey is partly off the beaten track, before rejoining the forest paths via the Baraque Guillet, Les Auberges and La Fleur du Roy.

Halfway between the North Pole and the equator, this is a fun route for everyone. It is possible to do it on a mountain bike, but be careful in the second part.

Les Rochers de la Balme offers the possibility of an off-trail ridge crossing, which is quite long but not very technical. Several combinations are possible depending on the access routes chosen. This circular route offers a complete traverse from Tête des Chaudières to Pas Ernadant, with a steep climb (partly off-trail) via Combe de Fer and a more conventional descent via Cabanne de Carrette and theGR® 91.

This forest walk allows you to discover some of the sites and points of interest in this part of the Vercors Massif. You will pass by the karstic caves of the Pot du Loup, the Plaine d’Herbouilly, a protected natural site, and you will look out for the Fleur du Roy, a relic of times gone by.

A short hike, mainly through the woods, to discover some of the geological curiosities of the Vercors: the Corrençon-en-Vercors glacier and the Barre aux Chèvres (natural cavities carved out of the limestone by water). With some beautiful panoramic views from the eastern balcony of the Vercors