Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Canyons
France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes

Merlas

Top 8 Gorges around Merlas

Best canyons around Merlas are found in the Isère department of southeastern France, within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Merlas is part of the Chartreuse Regional Natural Park, characterized by elevations ranging from 400 to 925 meters. The area features natural attractions, including several gorges and streams that offer varied outdoor experiences.

Best canyons around Merlas

  • The most popular canyons is Grenant Stream, a river that winds through a lush and tranquil forest in the heart of the Chartreuse mountains. This…

Last updated: June 22, 2026

Notre-Dame du Frou Statue

Highlight • Monument

Surprising this stone statue at the bend of a bend🤩

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Grenant Stream

Highlight • River

As you travel to the Grenant stream above La Bridoire, you will discover a hidden stream that winds through a lush and tranquil forest in the heart of the Chartreuse …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Gorges du Crossey

Highlight • Gorge

Magnificent gorges between the Massif de la Chartreuse and Voiron, contains a climbing spot!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Old Saint-Martin Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

Splendid gorges of Guiers Vif, to explore if you pass in the area! You can cross them thanks to a very nice little bridge. Nice discovery!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

The Sarde Road

Highlight • Trail

Superb road and vestige of the Roman road which linked Lyon to Chambéry. Today a hiking trail, this ancient Roman road can be rediscovered on foot in a sumptuous setting!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more gorges around Merlas.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Merlas

Road Cycling Routes around Merlas

Running Trails around Merlas

MTB Trails around Merlas

Cycling around Merlas

Hiking around Merlas

Gravel biking around Merlas

Tips from the Community

JakobusPilger
October 4, 2025, Statue Notre-Dame du Frou

Relatively far outside the villages within the nature park, isolated on the side of the road, the biker encounters a stone-carved statue (or rather, a relief image) of the Virgin Mary, holding her son Jesus on her lap. The divine child, in turn, holds a globe crowned by an oversized cross – a double symbol: The globe signifies Jesus as Lord of the world, while the cross refers to his death, which the Son of God endured out of love for us humans in order to redeem us.

Translated by Google

0

0

A little "kick in the pants" to get out! Cool and in the shade!

Translated by Google

0

0

The coolness in these gorges is much appreciated when it's close to a heatwave on the plains! And the wild atmosphere of the small road through these gorges (before reaching a busy road for a beautiful descent) is good (a little "kick in the ass" to get out!).

Translated by Google

0

0

Beautiful bridge over the gorge

Translated by Google

4

0

Paul_C
September 4, 2024, Ruisseau de Grenant

As you travel to the Grenant stream above La Bridoire, you will discover a hidden stream that winds through a lush and tranquil forest in the heart of the Chartreuse mountains. The area around the stream is teeming with wildlife and you will often see birds and other woodland creatures. As you listen to the soothing sound of flowing water, let your mind escape into nature.

Translated by Google

2

0

Pretty statue on the side of the road which overlooks a dizzying view of the Gorges behind, in the middle of the Chartreuse.

Translated by Google

1

0

Amazing statue on the secondary road at the side of the road.

Translated by Google

0

0

Surprising this stone statue at the bend of a bend🤩

Translated by Google

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular gorges and natural features to explore around Merlas?

The region around Merlas offers several notable natural attractions. The Grenant Stream is a tranquil river winding through a lush forest, known for its wildlife. Another popular spot is the Gorges du Crossey, which provides a cool and wild atmosphere between the Massif de la Chartreuse and Voiron. Additionally, the Old Saint-Martin Bridge offers a unique perspective over the splendid gorges of Guiers Vif.

Are there any family-friendly options for exploring the gorges near Merlas?

Yes, the Old Saint-Martin Bridge is considered family-friendly. You can walk across this historical bridge over the narrow gorges of Guiers Vif, offering an accessible way to experience the natural beauty. The Sarde Road, while having some almost high alpine sections, has also been enjoyed by children.

What historical sites can be found near the gorges around Merlas?

The area boasts a few historical points of interest. The Old Saint-Martin Bridge is a historical bridge over the Guiers Vif gorges. Another significant historical site is The Sarde Road, an ancient Roman road that once linked Lyon to Chambéry and is now a hiking trail.

What kind of views can I expect when visiting the gorges around Merlas?

Visitors can enjoy diverse views. From the Notre-Dame du Frou Statue, you can overlook a dizzying view of the gorges. The Old Saint-Martin Bridge provides a unique perspective of the narrow Guiers Vif gorge. The Grenant Stream offers serene forest views with flowing water.

Are there opportunities for climbing in the gorges near Merlas?

Yes, the Gorges du Crossey is known to contain a climbing spot. Its wild atmosphere and cool environment make it a suitable location for such activities.

What outdoor activities can I do near these gorges, besides exploring the canyons themselves?

The region around Merlas offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Col des Mille Martyrs loop' or 'Lake Paladru loop'. There are also running trails, including challenging routes like 'Château de Longpra – Super technical descent loop'. For general cycling, options like 'View of Lake Aiguebelette loop' are available. You can explore these routes further on the respective guides: Road Cycling Routes around Merlas, Running Trails around Merlas, and Cycling around Merlas.

What is the best time to visit the gorges around Merlas?

The Gorges du Crossey are particularly appreciated for their coolness and shade, making them an excellent choice during warmer periods or when it's close to a heatwave on the plains. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploration, while summer provides a refreshing escape from the heat.

What makes the Grenant Stream a unique place to visit?

The Grenant Stream is a hidden gem that winds through a lush and tranquil forest in the heart of the Chartreuse mountains. It's known for its abundant wildlife, where you can often spot birds and other woodland creatures, and the soothing sound of its flowing water provides a peaceful natural escape.

Are there any challenging trails or historical paths to explore in the area?

Yes, The Sarde Road is a superb historical trail that follows an ancient Roman road. It offers an almost high alpine experience in a sumptuous setting, with parts that can be quite challenging, especially when wet. It's a great option for those looking for a more adventurous hike with historical significance.

What kind of natural environment can I expect in the Chartreuse Regional Natural Park where Merlas is located?

The Chartreuse Regional Natural Park, where Merlas is situated, is characterized by varied elevations ranging from 400 to 925 meters. You can expect lush forests, winding rivers like the Grenant Stream, and deep gorges such as the Gorges du Crossey. The area is rich in wildlife and offers a wild, natural atmosphere.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the gorges around Merlas?

Visitors appreciate the cool and wild atmosphere of places like the Gorges du Crossey, especially during warm weather. The historical significance and unique perspectives offered by the Old Saint-Martin Bridge are also highly valued. Many enjoy the tranquility and wildlife found along the Grenant Stream, and the adventurous spirit of The Sarde Road.

Most popular routes around Merlas

Road Cycling Routes around Merlas

Most popular attractions around Merlas

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Already discovered everything in this region? See additional gorges around Merlas for your next adventure:

VoissantSaint-BueilSaint-Geoire-En-ValdaineSaint-Martin-De-VaulserreSaint-Albin-De-Vaulserre

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Saint-Geoire-En-Valdaine

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy