From the desert of Jean-Jacques Rousseau to the Froussard farm

Step by step

Following in the footsteps of the famous philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau is an original way to follow in his footsteps. Indeed, Rousseau loved to forage in the Bois des Vouillants at the start of Beauregard, where he stayed for a month in 1768. The most direct access is the desert that today bears his name.

This walk, which is accessible to all, begins by crossing this gorge carved by ancestral waves. These deep ravines are home to a variety of vegetation, including mosses and ferns. The botanical wealth of Les Vouillants appealed to Jean Jacques Rousseau, who spent a month at nearby Beauregard in 1768. Leaving the desert, the comfortable path runs alongside meadows. At L'Orée du bois, turn left towards the Froussard farm, reached 1 km further on. Note the abundance of Fragon épineux or little holly in the undergrowth. At this point, it's hard to believe that only 1.5 km as the crow flies separate the walker from the town. The few ruins of the farmhouse, set between meadows and forests, give an idea of the past agricultural activity of this area. Leave the ruins on your right and continue straight down the path towards Parc Karl Marx for 700 m. At the old ball trap fence, leave the left-hand path and join the track on your right. Turn right onto the track and right again at the next junction to reach Pré Faure. At the 4-way intersection at Pré Faure, follow the path towards the Jean Jacques Rousseau desert. A little further along this path is a small meadow on your left. You'll discover a superb view of the Chartreuse and Belledonne massifs. At the next intersection, continue straight ahead on the main road. At the barrier leading to the road, turn right onto the path overhanging the Saint-Nizier road until you return to the parking area.

Route stages: Désert Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Falaise de Bois Roland, L'Orée du Bois, Ferme Froussard, Pré Faure, Désert Jean-Jacques Rousseau