Allemond combines a hike with a historical destination, local history and activities at Lac du Verney. You can plan your stay around different interests: a marked trail, the connection to Oz 3300, or activities involving water and climbing. The season also matters, as cross-country ski equipment rental is seasonal.

Hiking to a Historical Site

The York-Mallory hike starts at Rivier d’Allemond and leads above the hamlet to the site of the plane crash of 14 November 1944. The route is 7.2 kilometres long, rated moderate and marked; the walking time is about four and a half hours. Its distance, approximate duration and difficulty rating provide a concrete framework for planning your day.

The historical connection also features at Espace York Mallory. It commemorates the disappearance of British Air Marshal Sir Trafford Leigh-Mallory in a plane crash over Rivier d’Allemond in November 1944. The exhibition and hike explore the same event from different perspectives: one as a local memorial, the other with the crash site as its destination.

Connections for Summer and Cycling

The Eau d’Olle Express takes visitors from Allemond to the Oz 3300 station in eight minutes. In summer, it also provides access to hiking trails, mountain bike routes, bike parks and mountain lifts in the Espace Alpe d’Huez, without having to drive between the valley and the stations. If you include this connection in your day’s plans, it is worth checking the timetable.

For cyclists, the Voie verte is another option: it runs from Allemond through Le Bourg-d’Oisans to Venosc and connects six valleys in Oisans. The route also offers a way to avoid the departmental road. You can therefore choose a cycling route based in part on whether this road alternative matters to your plans.

At Lac du Verney

Lac du Verney is an artificial reservoir and also a mountain lake. It covers 75 hectares and lies at an altitude of 725 metres. Windsurfing, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, wingfoiling and pedal boating are permitted at the Base nautique du Lac du Verney. Swimming, diving, motorboating and waterskiing are prohibited. This distinction between permitted and prohibited activities is important when choosing what to do.

Another outdoor option is the Aiguille de l’Eau d’Olle, a 33-metre-high outdoor climbing wall. It has three sides and about ten routes, as well as numerous variations graded from 4 to 6b/c.

Local History and Regional Products

The traditional character of Oisans villages is preserved in old Allemond, around the church. Another layer of history dates back to the reigns of Louis XIII and Louis XIV: Allemond was then home to mining activity and royal foundries. They mainly smelted silver, lead and copper ore from local mines.

The Maison du Bouquetin presents the history and habitat of the Alpine ibex, as well as its seasonal diet, social behaviour and predators. Conservation and research initiatives in the Belledonne Massif are also among its topics. The centre thus complements local history with a focus on natural history.

In summer, the Monday market in Allemond offers fruit and vegetables, meat and charcuterie, regional products, cheese and clothing. The Ferme de l’Edelweiss offers goat’s cheese, Camembert, Raclette, yoghurt, terrines and charcuterie. These two places provide different ways to discover regional products.

A Seasonal Winter Option

In winter, the Foyer de ski de fond in Allemond rents classic cross-country skis and skating skis, as well as poles, boots and snowshoes. Since this service is seasonal, it is advisable to check opening periods before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Estrablin, Morette, Le Péage-De-Roussillon, Charantonnay, Beaurepaire, Colombe, Pontcharra, Saint-Didier-De-La-Tour

For the broader travel overview: Isere.