Saint-Pierre-d'Entremont / Grenoble

Here, the P’tites Routes du Soleil® cycle route guides you into the mountainous lands of the original medieval Chartreuse, or Carthusian, monks. The grandiose, unspoilt countryside is marked by emerald-green forests, racing torrents and sensational steep white cliffs. Departing from Saint-Pierre-d’Entremont, you tackle a series of passes taking you across the range. The two main challenges are: the Col du Cucheron (1,139m), leading you over to Saint-Pierre de Chartreuse; and the Col de Porte (1,326m), offering a fine climb in the shade of fir trees before a long descent towards Grenoble!

Don't miss:

• The Cirque de Saint-Même: before leaving Saint-Pierre-d’Entremont, enjoy a brief detour to discover this natural gem of the Chartreuse Range, including four waterfalls dropping down the side of a cliff measuring almost 500m in height, making an impressive sight.
• Saint-Pierre de Chartreuse: located at 900m in altitude in the heart of the Chartreuse Range, this little village of 1,000 souls is dominated by iconic summits, including Chamechaude (the highest point in the whole range at 2,082m), Charmant Som and Grand Som. In winter, it transforms into a ski resort beside the ski area of Cœur de Chartreuse. 
• Grenoble: this great city set below the Chartreuse, Belledonne and Vercors Ranges is well worth an extended halt.
• Parc Naturel Régional de la Chartreuse: this regional natural park encompasses the whole Chartreuse Range, a green gem encircled by soaring limestone cliffs, the main gateway towns being Chambéry, Voiron and Grenoble (in the départements, or French counties, of Savoie and Isère).
• La Bastille: a military fort set high up Grenoble, built during the first part of the 19th century on the southern flanks of the Chartreuse Range and reaching 476m in altitude, now accessible by cable car, offering unbeatable views over Grenoble.