La Terrasse brings together traces of different centuries with walks around the village and leisure activities by the lake. Visitors can focus on architectural and local history, or make more room in their plans for activities on the water. The site offers a particularly vivid picture of how history is reflected in buildings, archaeological finds and the former water supply.
Water and Architectural History
La Terrasse’s 13 basins supplied the village’s different neighbourhoods with water throughout the 19th century. At the time, houses did not yet have running water. This function gives the basins a tangible place in everyday history: they were part of the village’s water supply. Visitors today also encounter the theme of water through leisure activities by the lake, though in a very different context.
Several phases of construction can be distinguished at Château du Carre. The oldest part may date from the 13th century, so its date is uncertain. In the 17th century, a second building was added at right angles to the first. On the valley side, this part of the building has windows with central mullions. Thus, a possible medieval origin and a later construction phase can be seen in direct relation, without reducing the complex to a single era.
One visitor experience includes an exceptional opening of Château du Carre: visitors can explore the château and its terraces, with explanations of the site’s architectural history. The château also offers an exceptional view of Belledonne. Since the opening is described as exceptional, check whether it is taking place before planning a visit.
The architectural heritage also includes a former thermal institute dating from 1894 to 1935. The Magnaneries offer another perspective on local history: these buildings were used to raise silkworms, the caterpillars of the Bombyx Mori moth. These examples complement the history of the château with further topics, from the former uses of buildings to silk production.
Church, Chapel and Walking Routes
The Church of Saint Aupre was built in the 7th century on an ancient site. Its foundations yielded a funerary inscription from the year 522, as well as sarcophagi from the 8th and 9th centuries. The dates reveal different periods: the inscription predates the church, while the sarcophagi come from later centuries. Those interested in history will find more than a single date here: several traces from distinct periods at the site.
The Chapelle du Carre represents a later phase of construction. It was completed in 1883, after the hamlet’s residents had carried out the work. This specific connection to the residents sets its story apart from the much earlier construction phases of Château du Carre and the Church of Saint Aupre.
For exploring the streets, there is the municipal guide “Au fil des rues”. The Parcours thématique La Terrasse also takes visitors on a walk with 13 stops at memorial sites and picturesque spots in the village; an orientation board complements the route. When planning, you can choose between the street guide and the themed walk.
Leisure by the Lake
The Base de Loisirs Intercommunale de la Terrasse is located at 1300 route du Lac, 38660 La Terrasse. On the lake, it offers inflatable attractions such as Aquafun, Blob Jumping and Aqua Bim Bim. The specific attractions may change over time, so check the current offer if you are planning these activities. This makes leisure on the water a standalone item on your itinerary, alongside the village’s historical themes and walks.
Discover more destinations: Poliénas, Montseveroux, Corps, Les Abrets, Quet-en-Beaumont, Meylan, Treffort, Jarcieu.
For the broader travel guide: Isere.
