Perched on the heights overlooking the town, Notre-Dame de Vouise has watched over Voiron for nearly two centuries. Accessible on foot, it offers a 360° panoramic view of the surrounding Chartreuse and Vercors mountain ranges. An ideal hike for families, athletes, or nature lovers. Ready to be amazed?
- 1868
- Year of its inauguration
- 7 m high
- perched on a 15m tower
- 90 steps
- to climb to the summit
Why is the Vouise a must-see in Voiron?
01
An accessible hike
but sporty!
To reach the summit of Notre-Dame de Vouise, you don't need to be an athlete, but you should still bring some energy! The elevation gain is reasonable, but the slope is steep in places. You will need less than 1 hour walk From the city centre to reach the summit. The perfectly marked trail crosses peaceful hamlets and a generous and preserved natural environment.
02
Stuning view
For a wow effect!
The reward is well worth the effort! Once you reach the foot of the tower, all that will remain more than 90 steps to reach the summit by emerging at the foot of the statue and accessing an unobstructed view of the town of Voiron and a wide viewpoint over the mountain ranges of Vercors and Chartreuse ! of the orientation tables These will allow you to identify the main surrounding peaks. Notre Dame de Vouise is the must-see spot overlooking the town of Voiron. So get your cameras ready to capture the moment!
All roads lead to Vouise!
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Les Balcons de Voiron depuis l’Eglise Saint-Bruno
Quite difficult level
The Balconies of Voiron from the Saint-Bruno Church -
Quite difficult level
Our Lady of Vouise -
Les balcons de Voiron au départ de la gare
Quite difficult level
The balconies of Voiron starting from the train station
The Regardou viewpoint: a well-deserved break
On your way, make a stop at Regardou Belvedere This viewpoint overlooking Voiron also offers a unique perspective on the town and the surrounding mountains. It's an ideal spot to catch your breath, capture memorable photos, or enjoy a family picnic. We recommend taking a break here before tackling the final climb!
Did you know?
A statue steeped in history
It was Eugène Poncet, a resident of Voiron nicknamed "the father of the poor," who initiated the erection of this statue. Work of Charles Hérold, a coppersmith artist from St Laurent du Pont, who chose to create a replica of the statue from Le Puy en Velay in reduced size (7m compared to 16m), it was funded by a subscription 20,000 lottery tickets were printed and sold for 50 cents each, the city having already spent money on a major project: the construction of Saint-Bruno Church!
The statue depicts the Virgin Mary, standing on a half-globe where she crushes a serpent underfoot, and holding the Infant Jesus on her right arm as he blesses the city. On the pedestal is the phrase "Posuerunt me custodem": They made me their guardian " is engraved. It was first exhibited in the city center in July 1868 so that the people of Voiron could admire it up close and take photos with it. Then a procession was organized on September 1st to carry the statue to the top of its promontory. 737m altitudeIn total, 15 flower-adorned stretchers carried by the young people of Voiron hoisted the various pieces of the statue. The procession took three hours to reach the top! Since then, the Vouise River has watched over Voiron and its inhabitants… a symbol ever since over 150 years, which led to its renovation to restore its original color, on the occasion of this anniversary.
A trail particularly suited to trail running
Practical information for a successful hike
To fully enjoy your hike to La Vouise, here are some equipment tips not to forget:
- Comfortable walking shoes (the slope is steep!)
- A bottle of water (essential for staying hydrated)
- A hat or a cap (the sun is often shining up there!)
- A camera (to capture the splendid panorama of Voiron and the surrounding area)
What to do around the Vouise in Voiron?
Visit Voiron and taste its local products!
After the exertion, the reward! Did you know that Voiron is the birthplace of gourmet specialties? Don't leave without a visit to the Bonnat chocolate shop, at the shop of the Louvat biscuit factory or Chartreuse cellarsThe Caves site houses a museum that will allow you to learn everything (or almost everything, the recipe still remains secret!) about the history of Chartreuse liqueur, still made today by monks.
Another cultural break in the city center: you can also admire at Mainssieux museum The paintings of Lucien Mainssieux, a local artist and collector, can be admired, and various tours and workshops are available. A perfect way to round out your day in Voiron. These are visits not to be missed for heritage enthusiasts!
Shops
Explore our hiking trails!
Did you enjoy this hike? Why not explore other trails?! The Voiron region is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts! hiking and mountain bikingIts marked trails traverse varied landscapes, suitable for all levels. Whether you are looking for family outings or sports challengesThe region will charm you, between the mountain range of the Chartreuse, Paladru lake or the verdant valleys of the south.
It's your turn !
So, are you ready to get motivated? La Vouise in Voiron awaits you for a day full of excitement, combining hiking, panoramic views, and heritage discovery. Lace up your sneakers, follow the trail markers, and let yourself be surprised by the beauty of the area. For more information, don't hesitate to contact the tourist office! Let's go, off on an adventure!
FAQ
Where should I start to get to Notre-Dame de Vouise?
Several starting points are possible: the route is marked directly from the SNCF train station in Voiron or right in the city centre, from the forecourt of the Elise Saint-Bruno.
How long is the course?
It will take you less than an hour from the city center to reach the statue. The routes suggested above are longer loops than a simple out-and-back trip to Notre-Dame de Vouise. Plan your day according to the time you have available!
Where to park?
Feel free to travel to Voiron by public transport (train or bus). If you are coming by car, several parking lots are available; please inquire for details. on the Voiron city website.
