A Weekend with Friends in Grenoble: Discovering the Alps
Posted by Marion CAVARD on 06/18/2024 at 14:35
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Par Marion
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During a weekend with friends in Grenoble, we felt the urge to take to the heights and explore the Alps. After some research, we quickly decided on the charming and iconic Petit Train de La Mure.
IMMEDIATE BOARDING through history
A bit of history about the Petit Train de La Mure:
From an industrial past in Matheysine to the gates of Grenoble…
Mining began in the Matheysine region as early as the 17th century. Known for its quality, it developed to the point where a railway appeared in 1888. Various materials were transported between the two regions thanks to the train's daily round trips. It was a well-organized operation. Year after year, it evolved, and in 1903, it became the world's first electrified train using high-voltage direct current.
…to the rise of tourism with the Petit Train de La Mure
At the end of the 1980s, mining operations ceased. A new chapter began, centered around tourism. Crossing the Matheysine, passing through its Alpine mountains, and boasting a charming red color, the Petit Train de La Mure has all the qualities to welcome, transport, and amaze visitors! With its vintage charm, it can even be compared to the Hogwarts Express! For those who get the reference, it’s the Ravenclaw in me speaking...
The Route of the La Mure Railway
The Journey of the Petit Train de La Mure
The journey of the Petit Train de La Mure starts at the La Mure station. Nearby, a red locomotive catches our eye. Its retro charm transports us to another time as soon as we see it. Once aboard, we immediately embark on a journey through the railway's history and the surrounding landscapes. The train winds through verdant valleys, around the peaks of nearby massifs, and over numerous viaducts. At every turn, the panorama takes us higher into the splendor of Matheysine.
Discoveries along the Route
This mythical journey will give you the expected "wow" effect. “Toudoudou, toudoudou,” meter by meter, the Petit Train de La Mure takes us through natural and heritage landscapes along its railway. A voice accompanies us, narrating the train’s history and pointing out the most breathtaking views. During the announcements, we hope to be on the right side of the carriage (left or right) to capture every moment the voice describes.
One highlight of the route is crossing the famous Roizonne Viaduct. At that moment, time stands still. We observe the valley below, the Vercors massif in the distance, and the engineering marvel that is the Roizonne Viaduct. The Petit Train de La Mure also passes by the grandeur of the Vercors massif. Its famous Mont-Aiguille is both gigantic and majestic. The voice recounts legends, including one about two peaks of the Vercors: the rocks of the Two Sisters, Agathe and Sophie. Between the retro train, the journey along the mountainside, and the stories, the promise of adventure is fulfilled.
"Terminus, everyone off"
The Petit Train de La Mure stops at a wild spot. A path lies ahead of us. The guides lead us to a restaurant. The welcome is warm, and the selection is vast. The restaurant offers various regional specialties, each more delicious than the last. We settled on the outdoor terrace to enjoy the break and discuss our first leg on the La Mure railway.
The Walking Route at the End of the Journey
After our meal, we continued along the main path. We are faced with a breathtaking panorama, hearing only "wow" and "it's so beautiful." Before us is the Vercors massif, with the easily recognizable Mont-Aiguille in the distance, and below is Lake Monteynard. Its blue expanse captivates us, and a silence falls. We are in awe.
The Experience of a Journey Through Time
Back to the Future
Once the break is over, the guides call us for the return trip. Once aboard the Petit Train de La Mure, we look for seats facing the opposite direction from our earlier journey, ensuring we won’t miss any of the scenery! Rocked by the “gentle” sound of the train on the tracks, the Petit Train de La Mure departs. Through panoramic windows, we fully enjoy the Alpine landscapes passing before our eyes, listening intently to the narrated stories. This is a true adventure, allowing us to explore the mountains without physical exertion and take time to admire the Matheysine landscapes.
Making the Petit Train de La Mure Experience Magical
One thing is certain: the landscapes completely won us over. The photos we took made quite a few people envious...
The Petit Train de La Mure offers several daily trips during the summer season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station before departure. During peak times, we recommend booking in advance to ensure a spot on the red train.
All About the Petit Train de La Mure
How to Get There from Grenoble... without a car?
You can reach La Mure station from Grenoble by public transport. Buses T92 and T91 will take you there.
Further Discoveries
In addition to your ride on the Petit Train de La Mure, the Matheysine region offers many sites to discover. With its natural and artificial lakes, breathtaking landscapes, water activities, hiking trails, and museums recounting the history of this former mining region, it promises a complete and captivating experience.
Boat La Mira
TreffortView more
Lake Monteynard
MonteynardView more
Lake Monteynard-Avignonet footbridge tour
TreffortView more
La Mine Image
Sciences and technology, Geology, OccupationsLa Motte-d'AveillansView more
Napoleon's road - meadow of encounter
Historic patrimony, SquareLaffreyView more
Sanctuary Notre-Dame de La Salette
Religious heritage, Basilica, ChapelLa Salette-FallavauxView more
Vélorail des Alpes
Saint-Georges-de-CommiersView more
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