Charavines: Lac de Paladru, beach and trails

Charavines and Lac de Paladru offer several specific starting points for planning a trip: beaches, water sports, hikes, bike rides, and lakeside history. The places and routes differ in theme and starting point, making it easier to plan the kind of day you want.

Lac de Paladru and its shores

Lac de Paladru is a natural lake of glacial origin, 5 km long, 1 km wide, and covering 392 ha. It is described as France’s fifth-largest natural lake. On the north shore, the Grands Roseaux reed bed is a preferred habitat for nesting birds and spawning fish; the area is not accessible. There are seven protected natural areas around Lac de Paladru.

Charavines Plage combines grassy areas with sand and small pebbles. The beach has shallow water and a playground; admission is free. Facilities and supervision may vary by season. Before your visit, also check the current beach rules and fees. Public buses on line GH reach Charavines Plage via the Office de tourisme or Parking Martin Cluzel stops. Since bus services and stops may change, it is advisable to check the route before setting off.

At Bois d'Amour, viewing platforms offer a view of the lake, and there are also picnic tables. The recreation area is accessible on foot from Charavines via the Voie verte. This gives you a choice of a beach or a scenic outing, depending on your plans for the day.

Sailing, paddling, and lake activities

The Yacht Club Grenoble Charavines offers sailing, kayaking, and other activities on the shore of Lac de Paladru. The SPAC sailing school is open to everyone. Minors participate under the responsibility of an adult. The sailing center is located at 150 Route de vers Ars, 38850 Charavines.

Another option is the YCGC’s Pagaie Patrimoine activity: it includes paddleboard or kayak excursions and a waterproof orientation map. The map explains historical anecdotes at each stop. The tour combines paddling with a look at the history of the lakeshore. Fishing and boating are also possible on the lake; both are subject to the rules for Lac de Paladru.

Hiking trails and bike rides from Charavines

The Voie verte du lac de Paladru is 14 km long. Its southern starting point is in Charavines and its northern one in Paladru. One hike rated easy is Route N°63: Le Grand Platon. It starts at the tourist office, passes below the Tour de Clermont to the Croix des Cochettes, and then follows the Voie verte to Bois d'Amour. The route therefore links named waypoints with a destination by the lake.

The Les Etangs du Thivoley hiking route also starts at the tourist office. Between the hamlets of Fayard and Janin, it passes centuries-old chestnut trees on the way to the Thivoley ponds. There is a detour on the route to Ferme Gaec Fure et Tour. Goat cheese is available for tasting and for purchase directly from the farm; confirm that tastings and sales are available before your visit.

For e-bikes, the signposted Le tour du lac de Paladru loop, starting in Charavines, is another option. The Grand tour à remonter le temps bike ride starts at the Office de Tourisme de Charavines and leads to three former glacial valleys and through present-day rural landscapes shaped by thousands of years of history. The routes therefore differ not only in how you travel, but also in their described destinations and landscapes. Trail conditions and markings may change; check local information.

History by the lake

The Musée archéologique du Lac de Paladru adds a historical perspective to the themes of nature and activity. Aboard a museum boat, visitors can explore history and encounter the lake’s former inhabitants. Access and programs may change; check the available options before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Laffrey, Saint-Just-Chaleyssin, Rives, Châbons, Pontcharra, Pisieu, Frontonas, Saint-Appolinard.

For the broader travel guide: Isere.