Viriville: Heritage, Chambarans and hiking trails

Viriville lies about halfway between the major cities of Lyon and Grenoble. The approximate driving time is given as one hour; the actual journey time depends on traffic. The commune and its surroundings bring together a diverse architectural heritage, marked trails and the landscapes of the Chambarans forest. You can choose different focuses when planning your trip: historic buildings, routes through nature or the Fête de Jeanne Sappey.

Heritage: hamlet, castle and priory

The Hameau des Bonnettes has been listed in its entirety as a historic monument since 2003. A single farm complex brings together rammed earth, brick, earth infill in timber framing and river pebbles. Rammed earth is a building material made from compacted earth; in timber framing, earth fills the spaces between the wooden members. This means that two different uses of earth can be seen side by side in the farm complex. The dates refer to different aspects: 2003 marks the listing of the hamlet, while the 12th and 15th centuries date the priory and chapel historically.

The ruins of Château de Grôlée include a broad perimeter wall and remains of former round towers; one of the towers stands 10 metres high. A perimeter wall encloses a site; the round towers are distinct elements of its fortifications. The 15th-century Chapelle de Grôlée is attached to the remaining fortification walls.

The Saint-Robert bell tower belongs to the former Romanesque priory dating from the 12th century. The Clocher Saint-Robert is accessed via the lane opposite the house at 205 avenue Dr Turc; the site overlooks the former cemetery.

The Chambarans forest and its landscapes

The highest point in the commune of Viriville is at 606 metres, in the heart of the Chambarans forest; the peaks of the Vercors can be seen in the background. Marked trails pass through this forest, which is dotted with ponds and crossed by rivers. Fishing is also possible there. The distinction is useful for orientation: the highest point is a single topographical reference, while the trails provide access to the forest and its waterways as a landscape.

Hiking, cycling and horse riding

Viriville has signposted hiking trails. There are numerous routes in the commune and its surroundings for hiking, cycling and horse riding, where you can discover the built and natural heritage. Routes and markings may change; check the current trail route before setting out.

The Fête de Jeanne Sappey

The Fête de Jeanne Sappey began in 1802. Traditions and social events spread over five days include an illuminated flower parade, a festive meal and a dance. The specific programme may vary. If you would like to plan your stay around this event, check the dates before travelling.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint-Baudille-De-La-Tour, Saint-Quentin-Sur-Isère, Valbonnais, Flachères, Optevoz, Moissieu-Sur-Dolon, Le Sappey-En-Chartreuse, Saint-Martin-Dʼhères.

Go to the main travel overview: Isere.