La Motte-D'aveillans: Mining History and Nature

La Motte-D'aveillans combines mining history with hiking trails, woodland, and seasonal activities. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, these different themes can help you choose where to stay: would you like to learn about the history of coal mining, choose a circular trail, or focus your stay on nature and winter activities? Each offering has its own focus, making it easier to choose according to your interests.

Mining History at La Mine Image

By reservation, La Mine Image offers guided tours through authentic, developed underground mine tunnels. The exhibition traces more than 1,000 years of coal mining on the Matheysin Plateau. The tour and exhibition thus offer two connected perspectives: a walk through the tunnels and the long history of coal mining on the plateau.

Visits are by reservation; reservation arrangements may change. Check them in advance if you are planning a visit. La Motte-D'aveillans tourist station is a few hundred metres from La Mine Image. If you would like to include a ride on the tourist train, check its timetable.

Trails with a Historical and Scenic Focus

The “A Rebrousse Temps” circular trail invites visitors to discover the history of the Les Signaraux site. It is accessible to all ages and suitable for families. Anyone interested in the history of the area will find a circular route whose theme is directly connected to Les Signaraux.

The hike to Pierre Percée offers a different focus: it starts in La Motte-D'aveillans and leads to a natural arch on the hill of Creys. Pierre Percée is considered one of the seven wonders of the Dauphiné; from there, the panorama extends across the entire Matheysine. The trail and the view give this hike a distinct scenic focus. Trail conditions may change, so it is worth checking them before setting out.

One name also points to the local heritage: Pierre Merlière comes from the French expression “pierre meulière,” meaning millstone. This linguistic origin complements the historical themes without distracting from the specific trails and sights.

Woodland, Winter, and Summer Pasture

The Combe Noire arboretum is located at an altitude of 1,400 metres. Several tree species can be discovered along three circular woodland trails. The arboretum is accessible to wheelchair users and pushchairs; check trail conditions before your visit. Schoolchildren and children with disabilities worked together to help create the site—a story that makes the place notable not only for its woodland trails but also for the collaboration involved in its creation.

In winter, Domaine des Signaraux offers a range of activities: 26 kilometres of cross-country ski trails, three snowshoe routes, an area for snowkiting, and a toboggan run for children. There are also four downhill ski runs and a drag lift. These details show the different winter sports available, but do not guarantee that all offerings will be available at the same time: availability depends on conditions, and operations and snow conditions vary seasonally.

The Alpage du Senépi offers a seasonal contrast. Every summer, it hosts France’s largest organised mountain pasture, with nearly 1,000 heifers; herd size may vary. In La Motte-D'aveillans, cultural and historical visits, circular trails, woodland, and seasonal activities sit side by side. When planning your trip, you can prioritise these options according to which ones interest you most.

Discover more destinations: Montalieu-Vercieu, Saint-Martin-De-La-Cluze, Saint-Étienne-De-Crossey, Treffort, La Ferrière, Clelles, Gières, Valjouffrey.

For the broader travel overview: Isere.