Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour, a commune in the Isère department of southeastern France, include a mix of historical landmarks and natural features. The area provides access to various points of interest, from ancient castles to museums and natural waterfalls. The Bourbre river flows through the commune, contributing to the local landscape.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour
- The most popular attractions is Our Lady of the Vines, a religious building that features a statue erected in 1903 to protect the village and its vines. This site offers views and includes a picnic table.
- Another must-see spot is Chateau de Chapeau Cornu, a 13th-century château. It operates as a hotel and restaurant within a wooded park.
- Visitors also love Saint Joseph Chapel, a religious building. It offers views of the Chartreuse and the Terres Froides.
- Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour is known for châteaux, historical sites, and natural features. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including amusement parks and zoological parks.
- The attractions around Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 40 upvotes and 18 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Our Lady of the Vines
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Chateau de Chapeau Cornu
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Saint John the Evangelist Church of Valencogne
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Restored Washhouse
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I am very pleased that this washing area has been restored. When I hiked past there in 2016, I spent the whole day wondering what that was. Thanks for the answer to Gyloonda.
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Saint Joseph Chapel
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Tips from the Community
Found somewhat by chance and at a very affordable price, this hotel restaurant is a superb stopover for a bike ride!
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This church is dedicated to Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus Christ. He—like Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist—is a man on the threshold between the Old and New Testaments. Joseph came from the House of David, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. He was a carpenter by trade and the betrothed of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Saint Joseph's feast day in the calendar of saints is March 19th; in addition, the Church celebrates the feast of "Joseph the Worker" on May 1st.
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Here we encounter three stone cubes stacked on top of each other, each smaller than the one below it. The gray cubes each have a white field in the center of their sides, with a cross carved into it, painted blue and standing out against the gray/white background. This construction forms the basis for the present small sacred monument: above it rises a radiant gold figure of the Madonna. From this prominent position, the Virgin Mary – venerated in France almost always under the title "Notre-Dame" ("Our Lady") – gazes far into the country, and has done so for more than 120 years. @Rainer N. has already explained the date and reason for its construction in his short post.
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The abbey basilica was rebuilt starting around 1490 and completed in 1510 by Bernardino Zaccagni. The famous artist Correggio left his mark on this church. He created five frescoes there, including the lunette with Saint John and the Eagle (1520), which is considered the first to be created. The frescoes, the dome depicting the Ascension of Christ, the decoration of the drum and pendants, and the frieze of images that extends around the entire interior perimeter are all artistic treasures worth discovering. The Way of St. James is very well documented in several places in the church.
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Many thanks to Gerhard Mauerberger for posting his picture before the restoration, so you can see what has been recreated from this dilapidated part.
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The first name John has been widespread since biblical times, and so it should not surprise us to find a whole series of blessed and saints with this name over the two millennia of Christianity. At the threshold from the Old to the New Testament we encounter John the Baptist (also John Baptist), to whom most of the John churches are dedicated. But one of the four men who wrote the New Testament gospels also bears this name. This church in ___ is dedicated to him, JOHN EVANGELIST. A long church tradition has regarded the evangelist as identical with the apostle John mentioned in the Bible, but this is doubted in biblical scholarship. "The Gospel of John exerts a peculiar fascination. It is difficult to escape its solemn, sometimes mystical language. It addresses deep human needs and longings: hunger and thirst, the search for fulfilling eternal life, the longing for personal communion with God.” (Franz-Josef Ortkemper)
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Old washhouse, very well preserved and easily accessible.
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Great tour. The landscapes are really great, passing through the forest...! Too bad no place to park to start the tour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour?
The region boasts several significant historical sites. You can explore the 19th-century neo-Gothic Château de Pupetières, known for its connection to poet Alphonse de Lamartine. Also, visit the ancient Virieu Castle, with origins dating back to the year 1000, offering guided tours of its architectural treasures. For a poignant historical experience, the Maison d'Izieu serves as a national memorial museum dedicated to Jewish children who found refuge there during WWII. Additionally, the Chateau de Chapeau Cornu, a 13th-century château, is nearby.
Are there any family-friendly attractions around Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour?
Absolutely! For a day of fun, Our Lady of the Vines offers great views and a picnic spot. The largest theme park in the Rhône-Alpes region, Walibi Rhône-Alpes, is just 8.7 km away, featuring over 33 rides and shows. Animal lovers will enjoy Le Domaine des Fauves, a zoological park with a large collection of predators and over 200 animals. The Restored Washhouse is also listed as family-friendly.
What natural features can I explore near Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour?
Nature enthusiasts can visit the picturesque Glandieu Falls (Cascade de Glandieu), a 60-meter waterfall with an interpretive 'Sentier de l'eau' (Water Trail) for exploring the surrounding ecosystem. The Bourbre river flows through Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour itself, offering local scenic spots. You can also find beautiful views from Our Lady of the Vines and Saint Joseph Chapel, which offers magnificent views of the Chartreuse and Terres Froides.
Are there museums or cultural sites related to the region's past?
Yes, the Musée archéologique du Lac de Paladru (MALP), located about 12.5 km away, showcases archaeological treasures from Lake Paladru, including artifacts from the Neolithic period and the year 1000. This museum provides deep insights into the lives of ancient inhabitants. Additionally, the Saint John the Evangelist Church of Valencogne is a historical religious building with connections to the Camino de Santiago.
What outdoor activities, like cycling or mountain biking, are available near Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour?
The area around Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour offers various routes for outdoor activities. For gravel biking, you can explore routes like the 'Cordon Bridge – Lac de Barterand loop' or the 'Étang de la Feuillée loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can try the 'Saint Joseph Chapel loop' or the 'Our Lady of the Vines – Wide forest path loop'. Cyclists have options such as the 'Charavines Beach – Montferrat public beach loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Gravel biking around Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour, MTB Trails around Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour, and Cycling around Saint-Clair-De-La-Tour guides.
What are some unique local landmarks in Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour itself?
Within the commune, you can find a communal washhouse built in 1901, which is powered by a spring and features a statue of St. Clair. This restored site offers a glimpse into local history and culture. The Bourbre river also flows through the middle of the commune, adding to its local charm.
Are there any places with good viewpoints in the area?
Yes, several spots offer excellent views. Our Lady of the Vines provides great panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscape. The Saint Joseph Chapel is another prime location, offering magnificent vistas of the Chartreuse and the Terres Froides.
What is the best time to visit Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour for outdoor activities?
The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. Spring and early summer offer lush landscapes and comfortable temperatures for hiking and cycling, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. The Glandieu Falls are particularly impressive after rain, making spring a good time to visit them.
Are there any accommodations or dining options within or very close to Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour?
While Saint-Clair-de-la-Tour is a quaint commune, the nearby Chateau de Chapeau Cornu operates as a 4-star hotel and gourmet restaurant, set within a large wooded park. This offers a luxurious option for both accommodation and dining very close to the area.
What kind of archaeological discoveries have been made in the region?
The Musée archéologique du Lac de Paladru (MALP) highlights significant archaeological finds from Lake Paladru. Excavations have unearthed approximately 20,000 objects, with about 600 on display, providing a comprehensive look at life from the Neolithic period and the year 1000, including well-preserved artifacts from ancient lake-dwelling communities.
Can I find any religious buildings of interest in the vicinity?
Yes, the area features several religious buildings. Our Lady of the Vines is a notable site with a statue erected in 1903. The Saint John the Evangelist Church of Valencogne is a historical church with connections to the Way of St. James. Additionally, the Saint Joseph Chapel is a charming little chapel offering great views.
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