Alicante Travel Guide

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If you like fresh air, stunning mountain views and plenty of outdoor activities then you’ll love Grenoble, the sporty French city that is perfect to visit at any time of the year.

The capital of the French Alps has to be one of the most beautifully situated cities in the whole of France. Where else can boast, not just one, but two rivers and snow-capped mountains on all sides. That’s right, no matter where in Grenoble you are, you’ll see the Alps towering from above. And, as you’d expect from somewhere this close to the mountains, sports play an important role in the life of this active city. In the winter you’ll find literally dozens of fantastic ski resorts lying in wait, while the summer months are perfect for a spot of mountain hiking.

 Musée de l'Ancien Évêché

...historical museums, with ancient cathedrals complimenting centuries old castles...

If all that sounds like far too much effort, Grenoble has enough to keep you entertained without having to leave the safety of its pavements, and a compact and surprisingly flat city centre makes things even easier. Walk the maze of narrow streets of the old Notre Dame district and discover squares full of fountains, busy bars and cafes as well as plenty of boutique shops to get stuck into. This is also a university city with more than 50,000 students, many from overseas, which gives the place a definite cosmopolitan feel. Couple this with a lively cultural scene that sees art galleries sit side-by-side historical museums, with ancient cathedrals complimenting centuries old castles and you have one of France’s most interesting and vibrant cities. 

Lac Monteynard

...let’s not forget those mountain lakes.

If, in the end, you do decide to see more of the surrounding countryside, you won’t be disappointed. The Vercors National Park to the west of the city is a nature lover’s paradise with its plateaus, limestone cliffs, canyons and forests. And that’s not mentioning all those medieval villages waiting to be explored. Places like the charming Pont-en-Royans with its hodgepodge of houses overhanging the Bourne River, or Saint Nazaire en Royans with its 35 metre high aqueduct. And to the east? Well, you have the Alps, of course, and all those skiing opportunities. And let’s not forget those mountain lakes. Lake Robert and Achard are a quick journey from Grenoble and provide the perfect getaway for those warm summer months. Anyone up for a lunchtime dip?

Tips

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If you’re wanting to do some shopping while in Grenoble, head to Place Grenette. This is the pedestrianised centre of the city and its here that you’ll find all the city’s boutique shops, not to mention a good handful of high street stores.

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Grenoble is one of the flattest cities in France and cycling is the easiest way to get around. You’ll find dedicated cycling lanes on all the main roads and can hire bikes from the main railway station.

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La Table Ronde, located in Place Saint-André is actually the second oldest café in France. Founded back in 1739, it’s a must for any history buffs visiting Grenoble

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