Regional Nature Park of the Chartreuse Mountains

A living mountain, where nature meets history

Straddling Savoie and Isère, between Chambéry and Grenoble, the Chartreuse Regional Nature Park is a vibrant, protected and deeply human landscape. Here, the mountains are not merely a backdrop; they are a living environment. You can explore them at eye level, at your own pace, in the silence of a forest or as you round the bend of a village clinging to the hillside.

Designated a regional nature park in 1995, the Chartreuse is home to remarkable biodiversity, rare species, spectacular landscapes and a strong identity, shaped by centuries of human presence.

A mountain with people living on it and preserved

The Chartreuse is not a static natural environment. It is a living landscape, shaped by generations of inhabitants.

Farmers, craftspeople, foresters… they all play their part in maintaining this balance between human activities and the preservation of the environment.
This commitment is championed by the Regional Nature Park, which works to maintain this harmony over time.

Here, every landscape is the result of a dialogue between man and the mountains.

Start with the foothills

Before the cliffs and high plateaus, the Chartreuse reveals itself gently. Just a stone’s throw from Chambéry, the foothills offer a first taste of the region – accessible and already full of character.

From Saint-Sulpice to Vimines, from Montagnole to Cognin, via Saint-Cassin, Barberaz and Saint-Baldoph, the landscapes gradually change. Vineyards give way to forests, the paths climb gently, and the panoramic views open up gradually.

It’s the ideal area for a first exploration: walks within easy reach, lively villages, and a peaceful atmosphere that already offers a glimpse ofthe soul of the Chartreuse.

Explore the foothills of the Chartreuse Mountains

Stunning landscapes soothing nature

The Chartreuse plays on contrasts.

Dizzying limestone cliffs, deep forests, hidden valleys… the atmosphere changes at every turn. Light glides over the landscape, the seasons reshape its contours, and panoramic views suddenly open up, without warning.

A landscape that never reveals itself at a single glance, but is discovered little by little, with great intensity.

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Snow-covered Entremont villages
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ALAIN DOUCE PHOTOGRAPHY

Experiences

Life at La Chartreuse is all about movement, in tune with the changing seasons.

Saint Sulpice depuis le Forezan

Les Hauts de Vimines

The ridges of the Épine Mountain

The Croix de la Coche from Saint Baldoph through the chestnut wood

The Coche tour

Boucle découverte santé de Vimines

Easy-going walk: Le Forézan

Le Corbeley via the Col du Planet

Mont Grêle via Col Saint Michel

Cycling up the Pas du Lièvre via the Col de l'Epine (Chambéry side)

The vineyard loop

A History of Rock of silence and transmission

The Chartreuse Mountains have a unique history.

It is the story of the Carthusian monks, who have lived here for centuries, seeking silence and seclusion.
It is the story of the villages that have learnt to live with a demanding mountain.
It is the story of the paths, routes and exchanges across the mountains.

Blending spirituality, nature and human presence, the Chartreuse has cultivated a profound, almost intimate identity.

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P3 Lperron Parc Chartreuse18 38 Bd
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© Loic Perron

A committed region and accessible

The Chartreuse is also a prime example of the ecological transition in action. Eco-tourism, short supply chains, the renovation of historic buildings, the promotion of traditional skills… Local councils, residents, farmers and local guides are all working together to preserve this living heritage.

And the good news is: this mountain range is very close by. From Chambéry Montagnes, you can easily reach it via Saint-Cassin, Montagnole, Saint-Sulpice or Saint-Baldoph.

To experience, to breathe, to feel

What’s in store for you in the Chartreuse? Forest walks, breathtaking views, mountain huts, peaceful hamlets, craft workshops, farmers’ markets and genuine encounters.

It’s a mountain that’s both inhabited and full of life, an authentic escape, a place where you’ll be welcomed as a guest, not just a tourist.