The Boucle pédestre de La Croix du Futeau offers a specific focus on nature and culture: the discovery trail is 11.5 kilometres long and includes several different stops. At 743 metres, the Croix du Futeau is the hill’s highest point; a wooden esplanade has been built around the cross as a viewpoint. Other points of interest in Colombe include the Chemin de Compostelle and a work of art in the Église Saint-Blaise. Another route option is Circuit 4 through the Bièvre plain.

Futeau: nature and outdoor activities

The protected Futeau area is home to remarkable wildlife and plant life, including a diverse range of broadleaf tree species. You can explore the area on foot, by mountain bike or, in winter, on snowshoes. This offers different ways to explore, with snowshoeing specifically available as a winter option. The diversity of broadleaf trees gives the nature theme a distinct botanical focus.

Stops along the loop

At the start of the loop is the Lavoir de Murat, one of two restored washhouses to discover along the way. The mini-arboretum presents the forest’s main tree species on ten botanical information boards. The route also features bird sculptures made from deadwood, including depictions of pigeons, a Eurasian eagle-owl and a great spotted woodpecker. A reconstructed telegraph tower, rebuilt at its original location, adds another stop. Its information boards are accessible to everyone.

The loop is therefore more than just a route: along the discovery trail, restored historic structures, tree identification, bird sculptures and a reconstructed piece of technical infrastructure come together. The viewpoint at the Croix also gives the route a distinctive landmark. If you consider the route’s themes as well as its distance when choosing a walk, you will find nature details and cultural stops along the same trail.

Circuit 4: a shorter route through the Bièvre plain

Circuit 4 crosses the Bièvre plain, is 5.3 kilometres long and has 60 metres of elevation gain. Compared with the 11.5-kilometre Boucle, it is the shorter route. The trail ends at a playground, which is suitable for a family break; its availability may depend on local conditions.

Pilgrimage route and art in Colombe

The Chemin de Compostelle passes through Colombe and adds another cultural point of interest to the Futeau trails. The apse of the Église Saint-Blaise in Colombe features a painted chancel decoration created by René-Marie Burlet in 1960. Its specific location within the church, the artwork and the year it was created provide a distinct cultural heritage highlight alongside the Boucle’s nature and cultural stops. Together, these offer a range of interests to consider when planning your stay in Colombe.

Discover more destinations: Châtelus, Saint-Romain-de-Surieu, Bilieu, Thodure, Saint-Appolinard, Theys, Charette, Jarcieu.

For the broader travel overview: Isere.