
Cirque de Saint-Même
A magical natural amphitheater in the Chartreuse massif, famed for its spectacular waterfalls and accessible hiking trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos

Cirque de Saint-Même
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical natural amphitheater in the Chartreuse massif, famed for its spectacular waterfalls and accessible hiking trails.
"Incredible place. Can be a tough hike in places but well worth the effort."

Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are essential, especially for the red trail. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Cash for Parking
Parking fee is around 3.5 euros and may require cash payment. :euro:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Waterfalls
Throughout the Cirque
Witness breathtaking cascades tumbling down imposing cliffs, a truly magical sight.

Family Picnic Area
By the river
Enjoy a scenic picnic spot with brooks for kids to play and build dams.

The Red Trail
Challenging route
For the adventurous, this trail offers stunning views but requires fitness and good shoes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Trail Wisely
Parking and Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are essential, especially for the red trail.
:athletic_shoe:Bring Cash for Parking
Parking fee is around 3.5 euros and may require cash payment.
:euro:Easy Family Hikes
Many trails are suitable for young children, especially with carriers.
:familywomanwomanboyboy:Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal by the river with scenic views.
:sandwich:Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are essential, especially for the red trail.
:athletic_shoe:Bring Cash for Parking
Parking fee is around 3.5 euros and may require cash payment.
:euro:Easy Family Hikes
Many trails are suitable for young children, especially with carriers.
:familywomanwomanboyboy:Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal by the river with scenic views.
:sandwich:Check Trail Difficulty
Choose a hike that matches your fitness level for an enjoyable experience.
:hiking_boot:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Cirque de Saint-Même's stunning waterfalls and natural beauty, calling it an incredible and magical place. It's highly recommended for families, with easy trails and a lovely picnic area by the river. Some note that certain trails can be challenging and require good footwear.
"Incredible place. Can be a tough hike in places but well worth the effort."
Gary Dadge
"Great waterfalls. We absolutely loved coming here. We brought our 3 and 0 old kids in the carriers as even the easiest one wasnt that easy but nevertheless loved it. There is a lovely scenic area for a picknick by the river where the kids can build dams in the river bed. Will definitely have to come back"
Suzan Rowlands
"Had a nice climb up to a waterfall. 30 minutes from parking and doable with our 3 and 4 year old."
R. Jansen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cirque de Saint-Même is conveniently located about 2 hours from Lyon and 1 hour from Grenoble by car.
The most common access point is via the Parking du Cirque de Saint-Même, which is often free.Information on public transport options is limited, and driving is generally the recommended method of access.
There is a dedicated parking area, the Parking du Cirque de Saint-Même, which is usually free.
However, some visitors have noted a small parking fee of around 3.5 euros, payable in cash.The travel time is approximately 1 hour from Grenoble and 2 hours from Lyon.
Roads leading to the Cirque are generally well-maintained, but it's always advisable to check local conditions, especially during winter months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Cirque de Saint-Même itself is free.
The only potential cost is for parking, which is a small fee and not an admission ticket.As a natural site, the Cirque is accessible at all times. However, hiking and enjoying the scenery are best done during daylight hours.
No, the hiking trails within the Cirque de Saint-Même are free to access.
While not explicitly mentioned, local tourist offices might offer guided tours, especially during peak season. It's best to check with regional tourism providers.
As a natural park, visitors are expected to respect the environment and stay on marked trails.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include a 2.8km loop taking about 1 hour 15 minutes with a moderate ascent of +220m.
There's also an easier loop of about 1 hour. For the more adventurous, the 'red trail' offers stunning views but requires good fitness and footwear.Yes, many visitors bring young children, even in carriers, as some trails are easy and accessible.
There's a lovely picnic area by the river where kids can play.Expect a magical natural site surrounded by imposing cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, and lush greenery.
A loop hike can take around 1 to 1.5 hours, but you might want to spend more time enjoying the picnic area or exploring different viewpoints.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, and a picnic. If you plan to hike the red trail, ensure you have good grip and are not afraid of heights.
📸 📸 Photography
The spectacular waterfalls are a prime subject for photography.
Look for vantage points along the hiking trails, especially the red trail for dramatic perspectives. The surrounding cliffs and lush vegetation also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.Morning light often provides the best conditions for capturing the beauty of the waterfalls and the landscape.
While a good camera will enhance your photos, a smartphone is perfectly capable of capturing the stunning scenery.
Beyond the waterfalls, keep an eye out for the unique rock formations and the interplay of light and shadow on the cliffs.
Many visitors recommend capturing the scale of the waterfalls by including elements like trees or people in the frame.
Experiment with different angles to showcase the dramatic landscape.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the 'red trail' is highly recommended. This route is not for the faint of heart, requiring good physical condition, a strong pair of hiking boots, and a tolerance for heights. The rewards, however, are spectacular panoramic views of the waterfalls and the surrounding Chartreuse massif. It's always wise to check trail conditions and choose a path that aligns with your comfort level and experience.
Family Fun and Picnics
This makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed day out, combining a gentle hike with a pleasant picnic lunch. The combination of easy trails and engaging natural play areas ensures that even the youngest visitors can have a memorable experience. Remember to pack accordingly for a comfortable family outing.
The Legend of the Chartreuse Elixir
This connection, though lighthearted, adds a touch of mystique to the already enchanting landscape. It’s a fun anecdote that travelers might encounter, linking the natural beauty of the Cirque to the rich history and traditions of the Chartreuse region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit