In Valdaine, the landscape stretches between plains and hills. Outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking reign supreme! But the area holds many other treasures steeped in history and heritage. Discover traditional crafts and artisanal tastings, explore charming villages and castles… Looking for a getaway that blends heritage and nature? Valdaine awaits!
La Valdaine or Val d'ainan
La Valdaine is a contraction of Val d'Ainan. "Val" is a corruption of "valley" and the Ainan is the stream that runs through the valley. It rises in the Chirens marsh and joins the Guiers a few kilometers north of the town of Voissant.
Discover Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine, a Heritage Gem
Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine is a town of 2 inhabitants which was classified by the Ministry of Culture as a "remarkable heritage site" in December 2022. Among its treasures, it houses a 500th century church (the Church of Saint-Georges, classified as a historical monument since 1907) and seven castles which are open to visitors in the summer.
The Village of 7 Castles
St. George's Church
Built between the 12th and 16th centuries and now listed as a Historical Monument since 1907, this église It is striking for its unique construction and the richness of its interior decoration. The frescoes and choir stalls, dating from the 16th century, have exceptional iconography, sculpted faces, corbels, a grand portal, and include gifts from prominent figures of the village (choir stalls, altar, Stations of the Cross).
A valley with an industrial past
The Ainan River, up until the 30s, supported the development of numerous businesses such as sawmills, factories, and weaving mills that were powered by water before other energy sources became available. Today, traces of this past remain, notably a former silk mill with a sawtooth roof that now houses the Brasserie du Val d'Ainan La Dauphine.
for all levels
Outdoor activities
Valdaine is a great place for outdoor activities and the starting point for many sports, whether on foot or by bike. So what is there to do in Valdaine?
Hiking in Valdaine: routes and landscapes to explore
Mountain biking trails: paths for all enthusiasts
Trail running on the paths of the Val d'Ainan
Taste the Local Gems of Valdaine
Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine, cradle of Biscuiterie Louvat
This is something indulgent. It needs to be crunchy and crisp!
Founded in 1954 by Maurice Louvat, the flavors of yesteryear remain intact. Christelle Ivangine-Bogey took over the biscuit factory in 2020 with the aim of restoring its former glory. To achieve this, she revived the old recipes and created new ones with the help of Patrick Casula, World Pastry Champion based in Biviers. Behind every Louvat biscuit or meringue is a whole team of gourmets, faithful to the company's family values, expertise, and traditions, who want to share a delicious moment with you.
Two Louvat shops
At Saint Geoire en Valdaine
In Voiron
Local Producers: the authentic taste of the Valdaine
From goat cheese and poultry to eggs, vegetables, and meat, producers around Saint Geoire en Valdaine offer direct sales so you can stock up on quality farm products. You can also visit them at the market every Tuesday morning in the square in front of the village church.
in Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine
Organize Your Stay
Unusual accommodation
Bed and breakfast at Ysalice's
Head to Ysalice for a comfortable night's stay and perhaps a massage! Isabelle, your host, is a professional and offers a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating massages…
Holiday cottages in Valdaine
The calendar of festivals and events in Valdaine
FAQ
What are the best hiking routes in Valdaine Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine?
The village of Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine is the starting point for many hikes, mountain bike trails or trail running routes.
you can consult our page of all routes by filtering the results on the “Valdaine” sector or look at the Outdoor Activities on this page.
Where to taste local products in Valdaine?
During your visit to Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine, you can stop by the Louvat Biscuit Factory or the Val d'Ainan Brewery. Several producers also offer local products; remember to check their farm shop opening days before you go ;-).
How to visit the castles of Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine?
While Saint-Geoire-en-Valdaine is known as the village with seven castles, only two of them are open to visitors, and only during the summer. These are the Château de Longpra and the Château de Saint-Geoire.
Dare to escape just a stone's throw from Grenoble
