What to do in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse on holiday?
Hikes and nature in the heart of the Chartreuse
Hiking is the main activity in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse. Whether you’re a casual walker or a mountain enthusiast, the varied landscapes of the Chartreuse Regional Nature Park are waiting for you in this corner of France.
Easy and accessible walks
For a family outing with young children in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse, the walk to the Granges de Joigny is perfect. Easy and pleasant, it offers a peaceful setting and the chance to look for fossil ammonites. Another must-see is the Charmant Som, accessible by car, with an exceptional panoramic view requiring only a short walk. The Belvédère des Sangles also offers a gentle walk leading to a breathtaking viewpoint over the Guiers Mort gorges.
Along the way, don’t miss a stop at the Guiers Vif, below the Cirque de Saint-Même. This crystal-clear river winds through an enchanting landscape, perfect for relaxing in the shade of the trees. It’s an ideal spot to pause, listen to the water, and breathe.
Routes for experienced hikers
Ready for a challenge in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse? Head to the Dent de Crolles or the Grand Som, two iconic peaks of this French mountain range. These more demanding hikes immerse you in the wild, mineral soul of the Chartreuse, with trails crossing rocky ridges, deep forests and sweeping landscapes.
If you continue south through the range, a stop at Rivièr’Alp in Les Échelles is ideal. This eco-swimming site also offers a pleasant walking trail and a peaceful setting for a nature break in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse.
Living heritage and cultural discoveries
The Chartreuse is also a land of memory, art and spirituality.
Start your journey at the Grande Chartreuse Museum, housed in the former Correrie, to better understand the life of the Carthusian monks. Continue with the church-museum of contemporary sacred art in Saint-Hugues, transformed by the artist Arcabas: a striking place blending history and emotion.
In Voiron, the famous Chartreuse Cellars open their doors. Here you’ll learn the secrets behind the famous green liqueur, crafted from 130 plants… a centuries-old tradition still alive today.
Finally, don’t miss a visit to the Jardin de Mélanie, near Saint Pierre de Chartreuse. This passionate herbalist invites you to explore local medicinal plants through fascinating guided walks.
Unusual activities and gentle thrills
To mix things up, this region of France offers many nature activities near Grenoble, suitable for everyone.
Thrill-seekers visiting Saint Pierre de Chartreuse can try the via ferrata at Roche Veyrand, or take to the skies in a paraglide with Les Gens d’Air to admire the mountains from above.
Young explorers can venture into the Échelles Caves, fascinating natural galleries perfect for family discovery.
Sports enthusiasts will also enjoy thetrails of the Raidlight trail station, starting from the village. For a gentler mountain experience, let an donkey guide you on accompanied hikes for children… an unforgettable adventure.
Need to slow down while in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse? Treat yourself to a wellness break at the Oréade spa: Nordic baths, massages, and mountain views to fully recharge.
Stay close to nature at Camping De Martinière in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse
To fully enjoy your stay in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse, Céline and Brice welcome you to a true nature campsite, rich in history and looking to the future.
Set on the former pastures of a Carthusian farm, Camping De Martinière offers spacious flat, grassy pitches, partially shaded and bordered by trees, with a stunning view of the surrounding peaks. Here, tents, vans, caravans and motorhomes all fit comfortably.
For accommodations, you can stay in one of the wooden chalets made from the forests of the Grande Chartreuse, crafted by the owners themselves. The lodge cabins offer a glamping option for an unusual and comfortable experience close to nature in this corner of France, near Grenoble. There are also “ready-to-camp” tents for a true camping experience, whether for one night or more in Saint Pierre de Chartreuse.
The campsite has always followed an eco-friendly approach: recycling, composting, water-saving, soft mobility, renewable energy, environmentally respectful materials. Everything is designed to minimise impact on this preserved area.
In summer, family activities such as biathlon, treasure hunts and giant wooden games fill the days, and the restaurant “L’Atelier” serves mountain cuisine made from local products. Here, every moment breathes authenticity and friendliness.
Extend your nature experience with Sites et Paysages
Saint Pierre de Chartreuse is more than just a destination near Grenoble in South-East France. It’s an invitation to slow down, feel, live, and explore. Captivated by the authentic spirit of the Chartreuse? Find the same love of nature and warm welcome at other destinations with our selection of campsites in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and campsites in Isère.
