Saint-Ismier between history and nature
Accommodation in Saint-Ismier
Saint-Ismier can be viewed from several perspectives when planning a trip: medieval buildings, a memorial site, nature observation, and water sports offer different points of interest. If you are looking for a hotel in Saint-Ismier, this selection can help you choose a focus for your stay. The places differ not only in their themes, but also in their specific features and access conditions.
Medieval buildings and their features
The Église de Saint-Ismier dates from the 12th century. Another medieval landmark is the Tour d’Arces: it is the keep of a former castle dating from the late 12th or early 13th century. Its remains include a square tower preserved to a height of 10 to 12 metres. The tower is accessible year-round via a small path, the Chemin de la tour d’Arces. Check local conditions before your visit.
The Maison forte La Bâtie Champrond offers a different architectural form, with its preserved medieval round brick tower and loopholes. Saint-Ismier therefore features different characteristics of historic architecture: the square tower at the Tour d’Arces, and the round brick tower with its openings at the Maison forte. Together with the 12th-century church, these buildings provide several historical and architectural points of reference for the town’s heritage.
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Vallée: view from the outside
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Vallée was built in 1865 by Marshal Count Randon on his estate in Saint-Ismier. Its design is inspired by the Orient. From the outside, you can see stained-glass windows by the renowned Parisian glass artist Antoine LUSSON, including one dating from 1866. Access to the chapel is currently prohibited because the building is dangerous. Take this restriction into account when planning and check access conditions before your visit.
Memorial site and commemorative ceremony
The MĂ©morial Doyen GOSSE houses the remains of Doyen GOSSE and his son Jean. Both were members of the Resistance and were arrested in December 1943. Every year on 8 May, the MĂ©morial holds a ceremony to mark the end of the Second World War. If you would like to plan your trip around this date, check the arrangements for this year in advance.
Nature observation in the Bois de la Batie
The Espace naturel sensible du Bois de la Batie includes a protected alluvial forest, a body of water, a conservation garden, and educational ponds. The landscaped path and boardwalks are accessible to people with reduced mobility. Along a landscaped path, you can spot beaver tracks, coots, kingfishers, and dragonflies. This natural area therefore offers both a variety of landscape features and specific opportunities for observation.
Water sports at Lac Vercors
Another leisure option is the 75-hectare Bois Français site in the Grésivaudan Valley, between the municipalities of Saint-Ismier and Le Versoud. Windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking, and rowing take place at Lac Vercors; these activities are available year-round. Operating arrangements may vary. The difference is clear when planning your trip: nature and observation take centre stage at the Espace naturel sensible du Bois de la Batie, while Lac Vercors offers the water sports listed above.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Pancrasse, Pierre-Châtel, Bernin, Le Touvet, Nivolas-Vermelle, Claix, Besse, Saint-Christophe-Sur-Guiers
For the broader travel overview: Isere.
