Cholonge offers several distinct highlights for a stay: hikes lead to the panoramic summit of Grand Serre or along the circular route of Le Crey des Vorges; water sports and swimming are the main attractions at Lac de Laffrey. There are also riding lessons, horse rides and pony activities. To plan your stay, you can first choose your preferred activity and, for hiking, also compare the landscapes you would like to experience.
Hikes between summit views and hamlets
The hike to Le Grand Serre from Cholonge climbs through the forest to the mountain pastures near the summit. The panorama from there extends across the Vercors, Chartreuse, Belledonne and Matheysine, all the way to the entire Grenoble metropolitan area. Forest, mountain pastures and views of several named mountain ranges and regions shape the route to the summit.
Le Crey des Vorges offers a different experience: this circular hike passes through woodland between the hills and the lake, offers panoramic views and goes through typical hamlets on the Matheysin plateau. The two routes thus differ both in their format and in the landscapes described.
If a summit view is what matters most to you, Grand Serre fits the bill; if you would rather take a circular route through woodland and hamlets, Crey des Vorges is a better match. This lets you choose a hike based on the experience you want.
Water sports and swimming at Lac de Laffrey
The Club Nautique de Cholonge offers water sports on Lac de Laffrey for competitive athletes, amateurs and beginners. Options include lessons, rentals and outings for all levels. Training courses are offered during the season; availability is seasonal, and individual services may vary depending on the season.
Plage de la Bergogne is the southern access point to Lac de Laffrey and is next to a water sports centre. Swimming is permitted here, but there is no lifeguard supervision. Check local conditions before swimming.
When planning your visit, you can distinguish between the club's seasonal offerings and swimming at the beach: check current availability for lessons, rentals or outings; at the beach, bear in mind that swimming is unsupervised.
Riding lessons, horse rides and pony activities
Ecurie du Serre offers riding lessons on horses or ponies throughout the year, for levels Galop 1 to 6. Baby pony activities are available from age three. There are also horse rides for children from age two, as well as introductory sessions during school holidays, also from age two.
The age requirements apply to each activity as stated: from age two for horse rides and holiday introductory sessions, and from age three for baby pony activities. Horse rides may depend on bookings; introductory sessions are tied to the school holidays. Check the current arrangements in advance, including for riding lessons.
Discover more destinations: Montcarra, Monestier-De-Clermont, Izeron, Lavars, La Terrasse, Rencurel, Veyssilieu, Chatte.
For the regional travel overview: Isere.
