Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Étienne-Le-Laus - Top 20

Saint-Étienne-Le-Laus is renowned for the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame du Laus, a significant Marian pilgrimage site. Here, you can visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame du Laus, which houses the tomb of Benoîte Rencurel and the lamp of the Holy Oil. Other historical sites include the birthplace of Benoîte Rencurel, the Chapel of Precious-Blood, and Le Pindreau, where the Virgin Mary first appeared to Benoîte.

The region offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit the Blanche Gorge, a scenic and vertiginous route overlooking the Blanche River. The Avance Valley provides picturesque landscapes, and the nearby Lake Serre-Ponçon is a major natural attraction with pleasant lakeside trails.

Yes, the area features impressive man-made structures. The Serre-Ponçon Dam is one of France's largest artificial lakes and Europe's largest earthen dams, offering a significant viewpoint. Additionally, the Chanteloube Viaduct, a partially submerged and never-completed railway viaduct on Lake Serre-Ponçon, provides a unique and fascinating spectacle with its arches reflected in the water.

The region is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking in the alpine valleys and pine forests, with many mapped routes available. Cycling is also popular, with options for both road cycling and gravel biking. For specific routes, explore the guides for Gravel biking around Saint-Étienne-Le-Laus or Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Étienne-Le-Laus.

Many attractions around Saint-Étienne-Le-Laus are suitable for families. The Serre-Ponçon Dam and Chanteloube Viaduct are considered family-friendly viewpoints. Lakeside trails, such as the Lakeside Trail at Lake Serre-Ponçon, offer pleasant walks for all ages.

Yes, the region offers a variety of hiking opportunities. The alpine valleys and pine forests provide an ideal starting point for panoramic hikes. You can find trails ranging from easy walks, like those around Lake Serre-Ponçon, to more challenging mountain hikes. For detailed routes, check out the Mountain Hikes around Saint-Étienne-Le-Laus guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of cultural and natural attractions. The serene setting of the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame du Laus, the picturesque views from the Blanche Gorge, and the unique spectacle of the Chanteloube Viaduct are frequently highlighted. The region's quiet, rural charm and opportunities for nature activities are also highly valued.

Yes, there are dog-friendly options available. The Lakeside Trail at Lake Serre-Ponçon is noted as a dog-friendly route, allowing you and your canine companion to enjoy the beautiful scenery together. Always check local regulations for specific areas, especially around beaches.

The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers warm conditions ideal for lakeside activities and hiking. While winter hiking is possible, specific conditions should be checked due to the alpine environment.

Beyond the main pilgrimage site, exploring the smaller chapels and the birthplace of Benoîte Rencurel within the Sanctuary grounds offers a deeper historical insight. For natural beauty, venturing into the quieter parts of the Avance Valley or discovering less-trafficked sections of the Lake Serre-Ponçon shoreline can reveal serene and picturesque spots away from the crowds.

To delve into the history of the Sanctuary, you can visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame du Laus, which commemorates the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Benoîte Rencurel. The basilica features fourteen paintings depicting Benoîte's life and visions. You can also visit the Chapel of Good Encounter, the original chapel, and the Village Parish Church where Benoîte was baptized in 1647.