Saint-Ismier offers different ways to explore its history and landscapes: medieval fortifications, a 19th-century chapel, wildlife watching and watersports each provide their own highlights. When choosing where to stay, consider whether you want to focus on architectural history, wildlife watching or activities on the water. The surviving towers are particularly striking, and their forms can be compared with one another.
Medieval traces and architectural styles
The Église de Saint-Ismier dates from the 12th century. The Tour d’Arces is the keep of a former medieval castle dating from the late 12th or early 13th century. Among the ruins, a square tower still stands 10 to 12 metres high. The Tour can be reached year-round via a small path, the Chemin de la tour d’Arces. Check local conditions before visiting.
Another glimpse of defensive architecture can be found at the Maison forte La Bâtie Champrond, with its surviving medieval round brick tower and loopholes. For an architectural comparison, note the different forms: the square tower of the Tour d’Arces and the round brick tower at the Maison forte. The Église adds another kind of architectural history to these medieval landmarks.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Vallée has a distinctive design. Marshal Count RANDON had it built on his estate in Saint-Ismier in 1865; its architecture is inspired by the Orient. Entry to the chapel is currently prohibited because the building is dangerous. From outside, you can see stained-glass windows by the respected Parisian glass artist Antoine LUSSON, including one from 1866. Check access conditions before visiting.
Remembrance and local history
The MĂ©morial Doyen GOSSE houses the remains of Doyen GOSSE and his son Jean. Both were members of the Resistance and were arrested in December 1943. Every year on 8 May, the MĂ©morial holds a commemoration marking the end of the Second World War. If you would like to include the ceremony in your stay, check the dates and arrangements for that year.
Wildlife watching and watersports
The Espace naturel sensible du Bois de la Batie includes a protected riverside forest, a body of water, a conservation garden and educational ponds. A landscaped path offers the chance to look for signs of beavers and watch coots, kingfishers and dragonflies. The path and boardwalks are accessible to people with reduced mobility. This information applies to the path and boardwalks.
The 75-hectare Bois Français recreation area offers a different kind of experience. It is in the Grésivaudan Valley, between the municipalities of Saint-Ismier and Le Versoud. Windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and rowing are available at Lac Vercors within the area. These activities take place there year-round; specific operating conditions may vary. Check them before your visit. The wildlife watching at Bois de la Batie and the watersports at Lac Vercors offer two distinct ways to spend time in the region.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Nizier-Du-Moucherotte, Sablons, Bouvesse-Quirieu, Veurey-Voroize, Vinay, Voreppe, Domarin, Saint-Pierre-D'allevard.
Return to the regional travel overview: Isere.
