Grenoble and Clarée Valley: Premier Alpine Outdoor Destinations

Around Grenoble, the Plateau des Petites Roches hosts the renowned paragliding site of Saint‑Hilaire‑du‑Touvet, famous for the annual Coupe Icare and offering flights over the Grésivaudan valley. Nearby Lumbin provides a key landing zone, creating a dramatic altitude drop that attracts both beginners and experienced pilots, with local schools such as Air 2 Ailes offering training and tandem flights.

Further south, the Clarée valley in the Hautes‑Alpes presents a quiet alternative to the crowded Chamonix‑Mont‑Blanc area. The valley’s high alpine scenery, including the 3 400 m Col des Thures and pristine lakes, draws hikers seeking unspoiled trails, wildlife, and limited tourist infrastructure. Visitors are advised to book accommodation well in advance, especially for July‑August trips, as access roads are narrow and parking is restricted to protect the environment.