Grenoble, European Green Capital 2022

Grenoble Alpes Tourisme is embarking on this exceptional year with the conviction that the transition must be implemented in all areas. We will unveil the best experiences to be had in our territory throughout the year, convinced of the importance of this collective movement for a more responsible society and tourism. It is therefore with enthusiasm that we approach this year 2022, synonymous with inspiration and hope, ready to share with you all our favorites.

In this year of European presidency, Grenoble finds itself in the spotlight. The title of European Green Capital 2022 is a real opportunity to reveal to as many people as possible the remarkable initiatives carried by the territory in the field of transitions.

Grenoble, green capital IN the heart of the ALPS

The transformation of Grenoble Alpes began several decades ago. A pioneer territory, Grenoble has distinguished itself in its history by its socially innovative character and by an eco-responsible spirit which is now part of its DNA.

A softer mobility

One of the best examples of transition is undoubtedly the development of soft mobility. The public transport network is one of the first in the world to become fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, initiating in the 1970s a transformation of public space in order to create a city suitable for all. Today, thanks to a network of 5 tram lines, nearly 50 bus lines in the Grenoble area, 21 park-and-ride facilities, the SMMAG (Syndicat Mixte des Mobilités de l'Aire Grenobloise) creates transport solutions that support users towards simplified, carbon-free and more ecological mobility.

The flattest city in France, Grenoble is a territory that must be discovered by bike. The 450 km of cycle paths and the gradual development of 40 km of Chronovélo axes have enabled Grenoble to become the second French metropolis for the use of bicycles, the number one city for home / work trips.

Living in nature

The challenge of environmentally-friendly housing has also been at the heart of discussions for several years. The first labeled eco-district in France was born in Grenoble, in 2009, in the heart of the former Bonne barracks site. Today we can add the eco-districts of Villeneuve, Daudet, Flaubert, Blanche-Monnier and Bouchayer-Viallet.

This housing is part of a nature that is gradually regaining its place. Landscapes are enhanced, spaces protected and construction is redesigned to have the least possible impact. Waste management, the replacement of inefficient heaters or even the deployment of the urban heating network are all challenges that prove that the ecological transition is also a progress for society.

Love of the land

To love the planet is to respect its rhythm. A land of mountains and water, nature is present everywhere in Grenoble and in the metropolis. We are fortunate to have four real seasons, allowing farmers, traders and restaurateurs to offer production that respects nature and its rhythms. Thanks to the development of urban agriculture, the territory has reduced its carbon impact.

Just walk one of the 820km of hiking trails to gain height and realize how much nature is present in Grenoble. Moreover, the city is one of the few in Europe that is part of a Regional Nature Park, the Bastille site being located on the foothills of the Chartreuse Regional Nature Park. Accessible thanks to the first urban cable car in France (1934), this emblematic place offers a unique panorama of the Grenoble metropolis and its 360 ° landscape stretching from Mont Blanc to the Southern Alps. It's breathtaking!

The transition can also be seen in the parks. Since 2008, no chemicals have been used in the management of green spaces. Since 2015, more than 1900 trees have been planted, essential players in air cleaning. Many shared gardens have also been created, giving citizens the opportunity to get involved and participate concretely in the transition.

Go green in Grenoble

It is with pride that we will celebrate this promising year. The whole territory will put in the foreground the amplification of the transitions towards a vision of local urban masterplan more respectful of the environment.

Improving air quality, developing soft mobility, deploying renewable energies, protecting flora and fauna, all of these common challenges for the players in the territory that we are ready to take up.

Twelve themes will punctuate this year 2022, promising great moments of sharing and reflection on the transitions to a greener life.

Tours and local gastronomy

On the side of Grenoble Alpes Tourisme, we are preparing surprises and new visits for you to discover our territory and our heritage on the theme of eco-responsibility and nature. Discovering the trees of the metropolitan parks, bike rides or even treasure hunting in the Bonne eco-district, our tour guides go green to share with you their enthusiasm for the formidable Grenoble ecosystem.

Our shop continues to highlight the local products of our : walnuts, Chartreuse, herbal teas with mountain herbs or Antésite syrup, so many little treasures to try on while participating in the short-circuit economy. We have also created a Know-how Route, bringing together three themes in the metropolis: crafts, agriculture, and heritage.