Isère is the latest French ski resort to really take off as a year-round destination, scoring high on family travel radars for summer 2024 holidays. Plus it’s a cinch to get to, and you won’t need to book a flight.
The nature paradise of Isère
Isère – the beautiful family nature destination with everything you need for perfect summer 2024 holidays
Lovely Isère, a short hop away from the UK in south-eastern France, might just make the perfect summer 2024 holiday. It’s close to vibrant Grenoble, for easy access by train and proximity to that city’s culture and bustle (along with the city of Vienne, which is under an hour away).
And it’s a wild and lovely 50% nature – with tranquil lakes, and of course the majestic beauty of the French Alps and surrounding areas. Isère is huge – covering nearly 3,000 square miles – and its varied landscape spreads across Vercors, Chartreuse, Oisans and Belledonne – each of the massifs with its own niche appeal. Not to mention that the average summer temperatures are up to 30 degrees, meaning you can really get outdoors and enjoy everything the region has to offer.
National park, Chartreuse
Active families love Isère, France’s third-largest mountain destination
As France’s third-largest mountain destination, Isère is prolific on the activities front: with lake swimming; hiking (regular and donkey – take your pick, or do both); biking, adventure playgrounds; city breaks and plenty of cultural attractions. There’s also an excellent culinary scene (this is France after all), and an extensive range of places to stay – so whatever you’re looking for on the accommodation front, you’re likely to find it here. Vaujany in Oisans is great for kids’ activities, and you’ll love Vercors for its pretty landscapes and peaceful areas. Les 7 Laux, in Belledonne, has some beautiful walks near Grenoble, and that’s just the start.
Getting to Isère is easy as un-deux-trois
One of Isère’s USPs is how convenient it is to get to from the UK. A train from Paris to Grenoble takes just 3 hours, so you can do the whole journey by rail, which is great if you want to up your responsible travel credentials and avoid the airport.
It’s also doable for a driving holiday, and means you’ll have the car on hand to explore the area, which as we’ve already mentioned, is extensive with a lot going on. And if you want to fly, there are direct flights from the UK to Grenoble. So, however you decide to travel – Isère couldn’t be easier to reach.
Bulles de Grenoble, Isère
Grenoble and Vienne – bringing the buzz and the culture factor
The two major cities of Isère are Grenoble and Vienne. Grenoble, Isère’s buzzy capital, and historic capital of the Dauphiné region, is a perfect jumping-off point for family adventures. With its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, there’s a charming old town, the pretty Isère River, and you can soak up some panoramic views at the Bastille fortress. With playgrounds scattered throughout the city, your kids can burn off some energy, and you can burn off yours in the time-honoured traditions of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences (in any order).
Vienne, another city within easy reach of Isère, is known for its ancient Roman heritage; it was a major Roman settlement back in the day. So it’s well worth a visit for picturesque streets, historical landmarks, and attractions such as the well-preserved Roman ruins of the Temple of Augustus and the Roman theatre of Livia. There’s also an excellent archaeological museum, and if you happen to visit in late June/early July, an annual jazz festival, which attracts worldwide visitors.
Lake swimming and watersports for Isère summer 2024 holidays
Lake swim till you’re winning
Summer lake swimming must rank as one of the most refreshing activities around, and Isère is replete with pristine lakes surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests. For a day of swimming, picnicking, and watersports, head to Lake Paladru, Lake Laffrey, and Lake Monteynard. Whether you fancy exploring hidden coves, or lounging on sandy beaches, Isère’s lakes bring everything to the table for outdoor fun and blissful relaxation.
Isère – 50% nature
Hiking and biking are the way to go on summer 2024 holidays
A great way to immerse yourself in Isère’s stunning natural landscapes is a family hike or bike ride. From the rugged peaks of the Vercors and Chartreuse to the lovely valleys of the Oisans and Belledonne, Isère’s diverse terrain caters to every kind of hike and amble. Explore miles of scenic trails, find hidden waterfalls, and see the local wildlife amidst those breathtaking views. From leisurely nature walks to more challenging mountain treks, Isère is somewhere you can properly connect with nature, so get out there and get involved! And you don’t need a car to get hiking – from Grenoble, there’s easy public transport to join guided hikes. This includes lovely trails in Matheysine and la Pierre Percée – relaxed and accessible hikes with stunning views.
On top of the world
As for biking – there are over 220 miles of greenways for biking in Isère, as part of La Belle Via, the Isère Valley cycle route. You can choose the itinerary according to where you want to go, and there are plenty of places to stop for food and overnight stays along the way. There’s also e-bikes to take the pressure off little legs on all those hills.
You’ll find plenty to bray about on a donkey hike
To a more relaxing and rather unique experience, donkey hiking is another great way to explore the countryside of Isère, with treks leaving from Vercors and Chartreuse. You can do a guided trek through scenic trails, with cute donkeys carrying the supplies and providing a bonding experience for your kids (and you!). And who wouldn’t want to ride a donkey in beautiful surroundings? Your kids will love the donkeys, and you’ll be able to unwind and enjoy the views.
Family hiking trail, Isère
It’s not just cities and mountains in Isère
Isère, aside from its vibrant cities, also has plenty of pretty villages and historic landmarks to discover. You’ll find ancient monasteries, medieval castles, and picturesque streets filled with artisan shops and cafes. There are 11 free museums in Isère, ranging from art and history museums to botanical gardens and science centres, so educational days out are definitely on the cards.
For a truly adventurous day trip with your older offspring, you can join Le Plateau des Petites Roches (translates as: paradise for paragliding) in Chartreuse – around 7 km, and providing incredible views of three legendary Chartreuse peaks: Grand Som, Charmant Som and Chamechaude (the highest point of the massif).
Active families march on their stomachs on summer holidays 2024
As you’d expect from this region of France, food is of a very high standard. From traditional Alpine dishes like raclette and fondue to more gourmet fare using locally sourced ingredients, there’s the full range of charming bistros, bustling food markets, and regular summer food festivals. The culinary scene here prides itself on quality, flavour, and authenticity, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage, so indulge yourselves while you can – tomatoes really do taste better in France!
Secret waterfalls in Isère
From camping to luxury, there’s every kind of place to stay
There is a great deal to choose from accommodation-wise in Isère – the area is home to some sweet B&Bs, as well as a broad choice of rustic mountain chalets, and the more luxurious resorts with spa facilities. You’ll also find a number family-friendly campsites for your summer 2024 holiday – a lovely and authentic way to embrace the nature of the region. Depending on whether you want to be near the action for outdoor activities, or find somewhere with lots of facilities for kids, you’ve got everything from independent village guesthouses through to very modern city hotels.