The Three Saints countryside

A tour of the Dauphiné countryside, with panoramic views of the Guiers Gorge and the Chartreuse from the Valdaine hills, where cattle farming is still very much alive. Remarkable castles and churches dot the route.

Presentation Prices / Opening hours Service provided

Follow the yellow markings and the following crossroads:
-St-Jean d'Avelanne
-the Menoux
-the Forests
-The Antiquary
-Sacred Heart
-The Bapt
-La Brancha
-Savagneu
-St-Jean-d'Avelanne

At the start, note the beautiful Romanesque church of St-Jean d'Avelanne with its square tower and exposed stone walls. You soon reach the shady Le Melet path lined with chestnut trees. After the hamlet of La Brancha, the path climbs up into the Valdaine valleys. Pretty viewpoints allow you to contemplate the Guiers gorges and the Chartreuse massif.

The view remains panoramic for 4km, with rolling meadows bordered by hedges and forests where cows graze. The Sacré-Coeur site (100m round trip) is well worth a visit. Climb the steps of its tower overlooking the valley.

Then head back down towards Saint-Martin de Vaulserre, where the church (100m round trip from the Antiquaire) contains the fresco of the sharing, a reference to the bishop Saint-Martin. The village of Vieux Saint-Jean and the Combe pond round off the tour.

Marked itinerary

Distance : 17.5km

Difference in altitude : 350m

Positive difference in altitude : 350m

Negative difference in altitude : 350m