Circuit 5: Saint Antoine l'Abbaye

Museum Overview

This hilly circuit of approximately 50 km takes you from viewpoint to viewpoint to the superb village of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, ranked among the most beautiful in France. A route combining physical exertion, exceptional panoramas, and exceptional heritage.

Departing from Saint-Hilaire-du-Rosier train station, the route begins gently with 4,5 kilometers of flatland before tackling the first climb, near the village of Saint-Lattier. This first, sustained ascent (7 kilometers with a 250-meter elevation gain, nearly half the total), leads you to a first orientation table, with a breathtaking view of the Vercors.
The climb then continues at a gentler pace, up to kilometer 19, following a panoramic ridge line. Two new orientation tables, located at kilometer 16 (near the Montagne village hall) and at kilometer 18, mark this section, offering landmarks and remarkable perspectives on the surrounding landscapes.
The descent to Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye is as beautiful as it is striking: you'll see the majestic façade of the abbey church gradually reveal itself, with the Vercors mountains in the background. Halfway along, this is the perfect place to take a break, stroll through the medieval streets, and explore this village steeped in history.
The route then continues with a final climb of around 4 kilometers, up to the Saint-Jean-le-Fromental chapel and the last viewpoints on the heights of the circuit. The rest is a pleasant descent towards the villages of Chatte and La Sône.
To finish, you will follow the banks of the Isère on the Belle Via cycle route, with a very slightly uphill but rolling profile, which will bring you gently back to your starting point.

Tip: Want to take the time to discover the beauty of the route and the unique charm of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye? Don't hesitate to plan this tour over two days. The village offers numerous accommodation and dining options, perfect for a getaway combining cycling and heritage.

Don't miss the following along the way:
- Visit Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye with the self-guided Wivisites tours on site or the family orientation trails to discover the thousand-year history of the French People's Favorite Village 2025
- For families, the Railway & Musical Garden, certified as a "Bike Friendly" destination, welcomes cyclists for a fun break in the center of the town of Chatte, and for those seeking contemplation, indulge in a bucolic visit to the Petrifying Fountains Garden in La Sône on the banks of the Isère river.

Information: The loop has been reduced between St Hilaire du Rosier and St Lattier during work on the Eymeux Bridge (scheduled to reopen in 2027). Signs on a yellow background have been put in place to indicate the diversion.

Type : Marked loop

Maximum altitude : 492m

Comfort and amenities

Rates / opening