In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationChartreuse Mountains / Isère
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions81.85 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Hiking and spa break in the Chartreuse mountains: a rejuvenating escape in the heart of the mountains
Looking for a break to recharge your batteries and enjoy magnificent scenery? Our hiking and spa stay in the heart of the Chartreuse mountains is perfect for you! A unique place to rejuvenate.
Your base camp is located in the heart of Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse, near your 3-star hotel and our wellness partner.
Hiking and natural treasures
Set off in search of the hidden treasures of the Chartreuse Natural Park! The Grande Chartreuse monastery, the Col du Coq, the Col de Porte, the Arcabas museum and the Saint-Même waterfalls promise you varied landscapes and unforgettable discoveries.
The hikes combine peaceful undergrowth with easy and spectacular routes. You will explore accessible passes and summits, the Cirque de Saint-Même and the alpine pastures of Charmant Som.
A unique open-air spa
In the late afternoon, for three days, enjoy a unique concept: an open-air spa! With the Oréade center, we have concocted a "wellness break by nature", in the warmth and comfort of the wood.
Imagine yourself relaxing in hot and cold baths on the terrace, breathing in the fresh mountain air, then unwinding in a traditional wood-fired sauna. A yurt with a skylight awaits you for moments of rest, not to mention the option of a relaxing massage. The perfect opportunity to disconnect and revitalize!
The highlights
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The unmissable discovery of the Grande Chartreuse monastery.
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The ascent of Charmant Som and its exceptional 360° panorama.
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An exclusive spa program, designed to promote recovery after hiking.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
Average elevation gain: 480 m Maximum elevation gain: 560 m
Average length: 10 km Maximum length: 12 km
Average time: 3 hours 45 minutes Maximum: 4 hours
The walking pace is slow and steady, the discovery aspect is prioritized over the sporting aspect.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h30
- Average distance/day: 10 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 480 m
- Average daily descent: 480 m
- Maximum altitude: 1867 m
Management
French
State-certified mountain guide, specialist in the Chartreuse mountains.
As a mountain professional, he is committed to:
- Manage your hike safely and efficiently: route selection, pace of progress, logistics, health, adapting to weather conditions and snow conditions.
- To ensure the group's dynamics and cohesion.
- To make it easier for you to approach the mountain environment and to passionately share its knowledge of nature with you.
- To be available and attentive to your needs.
Program
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Welcome
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Meet at 5:45 pm at Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux train station (transfer available upon registration) or directly at the 3-star Hotel Le Beau Site (04 38 02 10 12) in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse in the late afternoon if you are arriving by bus or car. Your guide will give a presentation of the week's activities, followed by dinner.
Day 1 -
The Grande Chartreuse monastery (1001 m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 490 m
- Negative elevation 490 m
- Maximum altitude 1001 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
For the first picnic together, in addition to our own preparations, it is appreciated if each participant brings a specialty from their region of origin, in order to begin the hike with fruitful cultural exchanges.
After admiring the Grand Logis and the Saint-Hugues chapel (former outbuildings of the monastery), we arrive at the Porte de l'Enclos. This narrow passage was the true gateway to the Chartreuse Desert. We then proceed to the Correrie of the Grande Chartreuse Monastery for a visit (included in your stay). This museum recounts the history and austere life of the Carthusian monks, who have been present in this place for over nine centuries (the monastery itself, located higher up, is not open to the public).
After climbing through the forest, the trail follows the western slope of the Grand Som, overlooking the monastery and offering beautiful views. We thus reach the top of the Grande Chartreuse Monastery and discover the imposing complex of buildings with their distinctive architecture. All that remains is to head back, passing once again through the Portes du Désert (Gates of the Desert) and returning to the village via the Grange de Bernière.
Wellness session at the end of the day: welcome at the Balneo center from 4:30 pm.
(The spa program is subject to change depending on the availability of the service provider).
12 km, +490m / -490m, 3h30 walking time
Day 2 -
The hamlets of Saint-Pierre and the church of Saint-Hugues (880 m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 560 m
- Negative elevation 560 m
- Maximum altitude 880 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This day is dedicated to discovering some of the many hamlets of Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse. Indeed, this commune is very large and has more than fifty. We begin by descending and crossing the Guiers Mort valley before climbing the slope leading to Mollard Bellet, ideally situated on its ridge.
You will learn to recognize the typical Chartreuse architecture of the houses and barns. Passing through the hamlets of Gontière and Marchandière, we reach the Church of Saint-Hugues (880 m) for a visit. This collection of contemporary sacred art is unique, as it was entirely decorated and furnished by a single artist, Arcabas, from the paintings, stained glass windows, and sculptures to the candelabra and altar.
We then gain altitude through the forest to reach Pierre Mesure (1,080 m). We complete the hike via the small plateau of Martinière and La Diat before the climb back up to Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse.
Wellness session at the end of the day: welcome at the Balneo center from 4:30 pm.
(The spa program is subject to change depending on the availability of the service provider).
12 km, + 560m / - 560m, 4 hours of walking
Day 3 -
Le Charmant Som (1867 m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 7 km
- Positive elevation gain 550 m
- Negative elevation 550 m
- Maximum altitude 1867 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We start from the Chalets du Charmant Som (1,670 m). We're going to discover the many hidden facets of this well-known peak in the Chartreuse mountains. After a short climb up the alpine pasture, we enter a beautiful valley with lush vegetation. It's then time to begin the real ascent via the Pré Bâtard alpine pasture.
From Chamechine onwards, the scenery is breathtaking, with a true mountain atmosphere: spectacular cliffs, views over the Guiers plain, the discovery of the valley of the Grande Chartreuse Monastery, etc. Furthermore, it is not uncommon to spot chamois with binoculars, as they frequent this wild and little-traveled area.
The climb culminates at the summit of Charmant Som (1,867 m). The 360-degree view is spectacular, encompassing all the peaks of the Chartreuse mountains, as well as the surrounding massifs such as the Vercors, the Oisans, the Bauges… and Mont Blanc on the horizon. We return to our starting point among the herds of peaceful Tarine cows that graze on the alpine pastures during the summer.
Wellness session at the end of the day: welcome at the Balneo center from 4:30 pm.
(The spa program is subject to change depending on the availability of the service provider).
7 km, + 550m / - 550m, 4 hours of walking
Day 4 -
The Cirque de Saint-Même (860 m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 9 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Maximum altitude 860 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We cross the Col du Cucheron, which separates the Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse valley from the Entremonts valley, and reach the Cirque de Saint-Même (860 m). The Entremonts valley is unique in that it straddles two departments: Isère and Savoie. This dates back to the time when the valley was divided between the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Savoy: the Guiers Vif river, which rises in the heart of the Cirque de Saint-Même, marked the border. From one bank to the other, we will follow the various waterfalls upstream to the impressive Guiers Vif cave. It is indeed from a resurgence that the river originates after a long underground journey.
During this day, you can visit the tourist office of the Entremonts valley where the Relais du Parc naturel régional de Chartreuse is located, as well as a very interesting craft exhibition on the know-how of the region.
Before returning, we will make a detour to the ruins of the Government Castle, former residence of the Counts of Montbel and magnificent viewpoint over the Entremonts valley.
9 km, + 400m / - 400m, 3h30 walk
Day 5 -
Le Roc d'Arguille (1768 m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Negative elevation 400 m
- Maximum altitude 1768 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
For this final day, we'll explore a magnificent, sensitive natural area bordering the Hauts de Chartreuse nature reserve. It's a seasonal protection zone for the black grouse (a small wood grouse). Upon arriving at the Col du Coq (1,434 m), we're immediately immersed in the atmosphere, dominated by the impressive south face of the Dent de Crolles. This, however, won't be our objective for the day.
We take an easy path through the forest to discover the Pravouta alpine pasture and sheepfold (1,605 m). We walk around the pasture to reach the twin peaks of Roc d'Arguille (1,768 m) and Pravouta (1,760 m). These are magnificent viewpoints overlooking the Dent de Crolles. Our return will be via the Col des Ayes (1,538 m) back to the starting point.
End of stay in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse at 4pm or 5:30pm (transfer on reservation at registration) at Chambéry train station.
10 km, + 400m / - 400m, 3h30 walk
Day 6
Note
The times were calculated based on a pace of 300 meters of elevation gain per hour uphill, 400 meters per hour downhill, and 4 km/h on flat terrain, in order to allow for a fair comparison of the different hikes. They only include actual walking time. Meal breaks, rest stops, or time spent admiring the scenery should be added.
We may sometimes need to slightly modify the indicated itinerary, either for organizational reasons (overbooked accommodations, changes in trail conditions, etc.) or at the guide's discretion (weather conditions, group level, etc.). Rest assured: these modifications are always made in your best interest, for your safety and to ensure your comfort!
Wellness sessions: the balneotherapy program is offered as an option. It includes three sessions spread over the week, one of which includes a treatment.
Accommodation
You will be staying at the Hotel Beau Site, a warm establishment run by the same family for five generations, ideally located in the heart of the village of Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse and only 300 m from the Oréade centre.
You will be accommodated in comfortable rooms, with private shower and toilet.
Individual bookings are grouped in single-sex rooms of 2 to 3 people. A single room is also possible, subject to availability and at an additional cost.
Access
Welcome :
Day 1 at 5:45 PM at Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux train station or directly at the 3-star Hotel Le Beau Site (04 38 02 10 12) in Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse in the late afternoon, if you are arriving by bus or car. Please specify your meeting point when registering.
If you arrive late: on the same day, in case of last minute delay, leave a message at the first accommodation, at the Hotel*** Le Beau Site (04 38 02 10 12) or at the agency on 04 51 20 50 50.
Dispersion:
Day 06 at 4:00 PM at your accommodation.
Go to the starting point
Go :
Chambéry Challes-les-Eaux train station.
Please arrive at 5:45 PM for the transfer.
Booking of the return transfer option at registration.
Back :
Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux train station.
Departure from accommodation around 4pm. Transfer for arrival at the train station at 5pm.
At the *** Hotel Le Beau Site.
In Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse (38).
Route: www.viamichelin.fr
You can park your vehicle without worry near your accommodation.
Price details
The price includes
- Organization and supervision costs.
- Full board food and accommodation.
- Entrance to the museum of the Grande Chartreuse monastery.
- The transfers planned in the program.
- The welcome drink.
- The tourist tax.
The price does not include
- Drinks and personal expenses.
- Access to the spa and treatments (+ 145.00 euros to be booked upon registration).
- Personal equipment.
- The journeys to and from the reception location.
- The different types of insurance: cancellation and/or search and rescue costs.
- Assistance - Repatriation - Interruption of stay.
- Everything that is not listed under "The price includes".
Options
- Spa package (3 sessions, one of which includes a treatment) : CHF1’326.46 / unit
- Round-trip transfer from Chambéry train station : CHF27.44 / unit
- Single room supplement : CHF219.55 / unit
- Additional night in a room and breakfast package, based on one person : CHF114.35 / unit
- Additional night with room and breakfast included, based on two people : CHF123.50 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
During the hike, you must have the following documents in your possession:
- Valid identity card or passport
- Your travel insurance leaflet received upon registration (if you purchased the insurance we offer) or your personal insurance (contract number + telephone number)
- Health insurance card
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Hiking poles
- Airtight container for picnics
Equipment to bring
Equipment :
- 1 backpack of 35/40 litres with a flexible frame, equipped with a waist belt.
- A large plastic bag to protect the inside of the backpack.
- 1 pair of sunglasses.
- A water bottle (1 litre minimum).
- 1 Opinel-type pocket knife.
- 1 small pouch (preferably waterproof) to put your money, identity card, health insurance card and assistance contract in.
- Sunscreen + lip balm.
- A pair of poles is recommended. (available for loan upon request)
For the evening at the accommodation:
- 1 pair of comfortable trousers.
- 1 pair of lightweight casual shoes.
- Toiletries.
- Earplugs or ear pads (optional).
- 1 headlamp or flashlight.
Personal pharmacy:
- A tick remover.
- Your usual medications.
- Sets of adhesive bandages + disinfectant compresses.
- Double skin (like Compeed or SOS blisters).
- 1 pair of tweezers.
For the spa center:
- Swimsuit and two towels or bathrobe (swimsuit can be purchased on site for €8 and towel can be rented for €4).
- Bathing clogs are provided.
Clothing to bring
The principles:
For the upper body, the 3-layer principle allows you to manage almost all situations:
- A long-sleeved undershirt in breathable material or a breathable t-shirt.
- A fleece jacket.
- A windproof, waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type jacket.
When walking in calm, sunny weather, a t-shirt may suffice. In rain, snow, or wind, simply add a waterproof jacket. In very cold weather or during breaks, a fleece jacket is an essential addition.
The ideal list: (to be adapted according to the hike and the season)
- 1 sun hat or cap.
- 1 scarf or neck warmer.
- Short-sleeved T-shirts made of breathable material are preferred.
- 1 long-sleeved undershirt in breathable material or a shirt.
- 1 fleece jacket.
- 1 windproof, waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex type jacket with hood.
- 1 rain cape or a bivvy bag if you own the jacket above.
- 1 pair of loose-fitting trekking trousers.
- 1 pair of shorts or bermudas.
- 1 Swimsuit + 1 Towel
- Walking socks
- 1 pair of high-top hiking boots with good ankle support and waterproof soles (Vibram type). Remember to test new shoes and those that haven't been used for a long time beforehand.
