Walks in the Chartreuse mountains, between alpine pastures and traditions

For this first hike, we'll delve into the historical secrets of our mountains by exploring the alpine pastures. You'll be facing one of the most famous peaks, La Dent de Crolles, but rest assured, you'll be hiking at a leisurely pace at the foot of this unique limestone monument in the Alps. You'll also discover the renowned Habert de Pravouta, whose centuries-old walls may reveal some secrets of the pastoral life that has thrived here since the late Middle Ages. From the Col du Coq, you'll have the opportunity to admire the famous panorama of the Belledonne massif and Mont Blanc. A beautiful hike for this first exploration.

During the day, a stop at the departmental museum of contemporary sacred art will allow you to discover the work of the famous artist ARCABAS, who set up his studio in this church.

After admiring the Grand Logis and the Chapel of St. Hugh (former outbuildings of the monastery), we arrive at the Porte de l'Enclos. This narrow defile 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 retraces 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 route follows the western slope of the Grand Som and overlooks the monastery, 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 begin the return journey, passing once again through the Portes du Désert and returning to the village via the Grange de Bernière.

This beautiful day is dedicated to discovering the ancestral activity of farmers for centuries in the Chartreuse massif: Pastoralism and mountain agriculture.

Starting from the small village of Désert d'Entremont, you will travel along the flowery paths used by the farmers and the Alpine, Abondance or Tarine cows which produce a flowery and aromatic milk used in the production of our local cheeses.

A short walk along the Cozon, the local stream, leads us to the discovery of the Entremont Cheese Factory and a tasting awaits us.

During the week, we invite you on a special hike through the heart of the nearby Savoy vineyards. Abymes, Apremont, and the Chignin cru are names that resonate with local cuisine. It's also an opportunity to hear the unique story of the Granier massif landslide. During this outing, lunch by Lake Saint-André and a visit to the famous Myans chapel will reveal the secrets of this centuries-old legend. And since things often end with a delicious wine tasting, join us at our friend's winery for a truly convivial and enjoyable experience.

We cross the Col du Cucheron, which separates the St. Pierre de Chartreuse valley from the Entremonts valley, and reach the Cirque de St. Même. 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 St. Même, marked the border. From one bank to the other, we will follow the various waterfalls upstream to the impressive Grotte du Guiers Vif (Guiers Vif Cave). The river originates from a resurgence after a long underground journey. During this day, you can visit the Entremonts Valley Tourist Office, which houses the Chartreuse Regional Natural Park information center, as well as a very interesting craft exhibition showcasing the region's traditional skills.

Before returning, we will make a detour to the ruins of the Château du Gouvernement, former residence of the Counts of Montbel and magnificent viewpoint over the Vallée des Entremonts.