Croix de Chamrousse

Croix de Chamrousse is a viewpoint summit sitting at 2,250 metres above sea level, towering over the Chamrousse ski resort in the Belledonne massif near Grenoble, France. It is one of the widest panoramic viewpoints in the French Alps, and the slopes below once hosted the alpine skiing events of the 1968 Grenoble Winter Olympics.

How do you get to the top?

The easiest way up is the Télécabine de la Croix gondola, which departs from the Chamrousse 1650 – Recoin station. The ride takes only about 5 minutes and carries you directly to the summit without any hiking required. It runs in both winter and summer, making the viewpoint accessible to visitors of any fitness level.

What will you see at the summit?

The Croix de Chamrousse offers a full 360-degree panorama, among the broadest in the Alps. On one side, the Grenoble valley and city unfold below; on the other, the entire Belledonne range stretches out. On clear days you can also pick out the neighbouring massifs of Chartreuse, Vercors, and Oisans. Marked pedestrian paths connect several lookout points at the summit, each fitted with orientation tables that help you identify the surrounding peaks.

The summit area has recently been redeveloped as part of the Panoramic Park project. New additions include a picnic area overlooking the valley, a Himalayan suspension bridge, and a long zip-line ride offering a bird's-eye view of the landscape below. Families can also try a free smartphone-based scavenger game, the Chamrousse Explor Games, which turns a walk around the summit into an interactive activity.

When is the best time to visit?

In summer, the summit serves as a starting point for hikes along the Belledonne ridge and a scenic spot for a relaxed picnic. In winter, Croix de Chamrousse marks the top of several ski runs at the Chamrousse resort, and the gondola also carries non-skiers who simply want to enjoy the view. Visibility tends to be best on clear mornings, before afternoon haze settles over the Grenoble valley.

What should you know before you go?

The gondola operates on a seasonal schedule, so it is worth checking current opening hours and pedestrian ticket prices before heading up, since timetables shift between the winter and summer seasons. Bring an extra layer even in summer — temperatures at 2,250 metres are noticeably cooler than down in the valley.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Croix de Chamrousse? The summit sits at 2,250 metres above sea level, in the Belledonne range above the Chamrousse resort.

Can you reach the summit without hiking? Yes — the Télécabine de la Croix gondola from Chamrousse 1650 – Recoin reaches the top in about 5 minutes.

What can you see from the top? A 360-degree panorama covering the Grenoble valley, the Belledonne range, and the Chartreuse, Vercors, and Oisans massifs.

Is it suitable for families with children? Yes — the summit has scenic walking paths, a picnic area, a Himalayan bridge, and a zip-line, plus a free smartphone scavenger game for kids.