La Croix de Chamrousse
Ascend to the summit of La Croix de Chamrousse for unparalleled 360° views of the French Alps, a hiker's paradise in summer and a skier's dream in win...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
La Croix de Chamrousse
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to the summit of La Croix de Chamrousse for unparalleled 360° views of the French Alps, a hiker's paradise in summer and a skier's dream in winter.
"Sublime panorama with different viewpoints of Oisans, Belledonne, and Chartreuse."
Check Lift Status 🚠
Verify cable car and lift operating hours before your visit, especially outside peak ski season.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Essential for hiking trails, even marked ones. Rocky terrain requires good grip and ankle support.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Croix de Chamrousse Summit
2250m Altitude
Breathtaking 360° panoramas of the French Alps, including Oisans, Belledonne, and Chartreuse.
Lacs Robert Hike
Near Croix de Chamrousse
A scenic, albeit challenging, trail leading to stunning alpine lakes, often with wildlife sightings.
Himalayan Footbridge
Panoramic Park
A modern, thrilling footbridge offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Lift Status 🚠
Verify cable car and lift operating hours before your visit, especially outside peak ski season.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Essential for hiking trails, even marked ones. Rocky terrain requires good grip and ankle support.
Layer Up! 🧥
Mountain weather changes fast. Bring layers to adapt to temperature shifts and wind.
Wildlife Spotting :deer:
Keep an eye out for wild Ibex on the trails; they are a stunning sight!
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Lift Status 🚠
Verify cable car and lift operating hours before your visit, especially outside peak ski season.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Essential for hiking trails, even marked ones. Rocky terrain requires good grip and ankle support.
Layer Up! 🧥
Mountain weather changes fast. Bring layers to adapt to temperature shifts and wind.
Wildlife Spotting :deer:
Keep an eye out for wild Ibex on the trails; they are a stunning sight!
Embrace the Fog :fog:
Don't let fog deter you; it can clear quickly, revealing spectacular views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of La Croix de Chamrousse, calling them sublime and magnificent. The challenging yet rewarding hikes, like the one to Lacs Robert, and the unique Himalayan footbridge are also frequently highlighted as major attractions. While weather can be a factor, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and adventurous opportunities.
"We spent 4 hrs on the mountain ascending via cable car to the Croix de Chamrousse at an altitude of 2250m. It was a very foggy day with temps at 50F and a 10-15mph wind. We took the yellow marked trial to Lacs Robert and from there back to the lift where started at Chamrousse 1650.
The trail was marked “red” for difficult and I would say that’s quite appropriate. Maybe borderline “black” for very difficult given the rocky terrain that needed to be traversed. As difficult as it was, the trail blazes were plentiful and well maintained giving even a novice hiker confidence in the direction they were going.
Along the way we came across a group of wild Ibex which were stunning to see. Every now and then the clouds would break enough for you to see Lacs Robert which was a beautiful site."
Mark Angeli
"What an amazing peak. A decent hike during the summer and most of autumn and a ski destination during the winter. In the skiing season, the lift from Chamrousse 1650 can directly take you here with amazing views of the French Alps on the journey. Highly recommended to visit."
Shriraj Hegde
"Sublime panorama, hike done with Ici Isere, a big thank you by the way.
You have different viewpoints of Oisans, Belledonne, and Chartreuse.
Restaurant at the summit, with the option of returning by cable car, chairlift, or even mountain bike."
Aurore Lemaitre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach La Croix de Chamrousse by car, parking at Chamrousse 1650 or 1750. Alternatively, during the ski season, the cable car from Chamrousse 1650 provides direct access to the summit area.
Yes, during peak seasons, there are often bus services from Grenoble to Chamrousse. Check local transport schedules for availability and routes.
While the resort lifts open at 9:00 AM, it's possible to hike up before then, but be aware of trail conditions and safety.
For the quickest and most scenic route, take the cable car from Chamrousse 1650. Hiking is also an option for the more adventurous.
Yes, ample parking is available at the base stations of Chamrousse 1650 and 1750.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
If you plan to use the cable car, a ticket is required. Access to the summit area for views is generally free once you are up there, but activities might have separate fees.
Cable car operating hours vary by season and day. It's best to check the official Chamrousse website for the most up-to-date schedule.
The panoramic park itself is generally accessible without a separate fee, but activities like the zip line or restaurant visits will incur costs.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during busy periods, to save time.
Ticket prices can vary based on age and type of pass (e.g., pedestrian, skier). Check the Chamrousse website for current pricing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking, enjoying panoramic views, visiting the Himalayan footbridge, and in winter, skiing. There's also a restaurant at the summit.
The trail is marked as 'red' for difficult and can be challenging due to rocky terrain, but it's well-marked.
Yes, there is a restaurant at the summit offering self-service barbecue and tables.
Yes, it's perfect for families, with walking paths and a panoramic park. The Himalayan footbridge is also a hit with kids.
Expect stunning 360-degree views of the French Alps, including major mountain ranges like Oisans, Belledonne, and Chartreuse.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit itself offers incredible panoramic shots. The Himalayan footbridge provides unique angles, and the views of Lacs Robert are also picturesque.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting, but clear mornings provide the best visibility for distant mountain ranges.
Yes, if you're lucky, you might spot wild Ibex, which make for fantastic wildlife photography subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for panoramas, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules in designated areas like the restaurant.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families who enjoy walking, the trails around the summit are generally well-marked and offer opportunities to spot wildlife, such as Ibex, which is always a thrill for children. While the hike to Lacs Robert is marked as difficult, there are easier paths suitable for families. Packing snacks and ensuring everyone has comfortable walking shoes will make the experience more enjoyable.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond Lacs Robert, numerous other hiking routes branch out from the summit area, catering to various fitness levels. The opportunity to encounter wild Ibex adds an extra layer of excitement for nature lovers. Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots and layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Chamrousse: Summer vs. Winter
During winter, Chamrousse transforms into a renowned ski resort. The Croix de Chamrousse is a key peak, accessible via ski lifts, offering access to challenging ski slopes and breathtaking winter vistas. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the high-altitude terrain, with the summit providing a starting point for descents. Even non-skiers can often access the summit area via the cable car to soak in the snowy mountain atmosphere.
Regardless of the season, weather preparedness is crucial. Mountain conditions can change rapidly, so always check forecasts and dress in layers. Sturdy footwear is recommended for both hiking and navigating snowy or icy paths.
The Allure of the Summit Views
Many visitors describe the views as magnificent and breathtaking. The experience is enhanced by the feeling of being on top of the world, with the valley of Grenoble and various alpine villages spread out below. Even when fog rolls in, as some reviewers have experienced, it can create a dramatic and moody atmosphere, with the potential for the sun to break through and reveal the stunning landscape.
For photographers, the summit is a dream. The changing light throughout the day, from the soft hues of sunrise to the dramatic shadows of sunset, offers endless opportunities. The Himalayan footbridge also provides a unique vantage point for capturing the expansive scenery.
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