Natural discovery : the Chartreuse and Belledonne waterfalls

The Cascades de l’Oule, located in the Montfort area, comprise two separate waterfalls: the first, named Cascade de l’Oule, evokes the days when the local inhabitants used this spot to wash their laundry. The second, called Cascade des Gandins, has its origins in the stream and hamlet of the same name. The hike starts near the Montfort funicular station, and requires half a day to complete, given its steep gradient. Along the way, passing by the Pal de fer, you can discover the ruins of Château Robert, an 18th-century vestige. This hike is a perfect blend of nature and history, ideal for lovers of mountain landscapes and tales of the past.

On the banks of the torrent d’Alloix, visitors can discover two magnificent waterfalls: the cascade de la Gouille Michel and the grande cascade d’Alloix. As well as offering a spectacular natural setting, this hike allows you to explore the “chemins d’autrefois”, a cultural trail that retraces rural life of yesteryear. The grand cascade eventually leads to the plateau des petites roches, offering a route rich in discovery and history.

Situated in a valley opposite Fort Barraux, the Cascade du Furet is a small natural wonder, particularly striking when it freezes in winter. Access begins in the village of Barraux, where parking is recommended. The road leads to a forest path bordering a meadow, which continues along a narrower, darker path, reminiscent of a plant corridor. After a climb between two embankments, the path crosses a beech grove and skirts the Furet valley, offering a picturesque path to the waterfall. The route, which takes less than an hour, is signposted by an old wooden panel. Although the route is not always clearly signposted, it remains accessible, with a slight climb towards the end.

The Cascade du Glésy has the appearance of a toboggan, with the water following the curves of the rock. With a 20-metre drop, the water twists and turns in a foam-white “gouille”. The waterfall can be reached from the Saint-Bernard-du-Touvet church parking lot.

Discover the Cascade des Dioux on a walk on the Plateau des Petites Roches, offering panoramic views, forest trails and the majestic waterfall fed by the Bruyant stream. The walk starts from the Tourist Office, passing by the Chapelle, the Moulin de Porte Traine, and offering panoramic views of the paragliders. The 15-meter-high waterfall is a spectacular point of interest, with ice formations in winter. The loop includes sites such as the Hameau des Vials before returning to the Tourist Office.