Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Laurent-En-Beaumont - Top 20

The region boasts several remarkable natural features. Don't miss La Pierre Percée, a natural arch with a 3-meter-high hole framing a panoramic view of the Matheysine plateau. Another impressive sight is the Drac Footbridge, a 220-meter-long suspension bridge spanning the dammed Drac River, offering breathtaking views.

Yes, Saint-Laurent-En-Beaumont is excellent for hiking. You can explore the scenic paths along the historic Canal du Beaumont, which offers three thematic and educational trails. For more challenging routes, consider the area around Plan Collet Pass, which provides a forest track leading up to the pass and offers views of the Obiou and Triève. You can find various hiking routes, including the 'Canal du Beaumont loop from Saint-Laurent-en-Beaumont', on the Hiking around Saint-Laurent-En-Beaumont guide.

The nearby town of Mens offers significant architectural heritage, including a 15th-century hall and the 12th-century Church of the Assumption, both listed as historical monuments. Within Saint-Laurent-en-Beaumont itself, the Neo-Gothic Saint-Laurent-en-Beaumont Church, built in 1854, features beautiful stained-glass windows from 1856.

Families can enjoy walking along the Canal du Beaumont, which has shorter, easier trails suitable for all ages. The natural arch of La Pierre Percée offers a fun photo opportunity and a relatively accessible walk. For educational experiences, Terre Vivante à Mens, located 14.5 km away, often has free admission on specific days and provides ecological insights.

Beyond hiking, the region offers various adventure sports. The Barrage du Sautet area features the Via ferrata du Barrage du Sautet and Base nautique du Sautet for water sports. The Gorges of the Souloise also provide an initiation via ferrata suitable for beginners and children. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes, including challenging ones like 'The Drac Corniche – Lake Monteynard loop', detailed in the Cycling around Saint-Laurent-En-Beaumont guide. Mountain biking trails, such as those around Parquetout Pass, are also available in the MTB Trails around Saint-Laurent-En-Beaumont guide.

The La Pierre Percée is a prime spot, offering a natural 'photo frame' with its 3-meter-high hole perfectly framing the Matheysine plateau. The Drac Footbridge also provides truly impressive views of the dammed Drac River and the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Plan Collet Pass offers nice views of the Obiou and Triève.

Yes, you can find opportunities for relaxation and water activities at Plage de Mayres-Savel and Plage Nord du Lac de Laffrey. The Plan d'eau de l'Alpe du Grand Serre also provides recreational options. For more adventurous water sports, the Base nautique du Sautet near Barrage du Sautet is available.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, you can visit the highly visited Domaine départemental de Vizille, approximately 22.2 km away. The well-known ski resort of Alpe d'Huez is also within reach, famous for its Tour de France association. For a unique experience, consider Le Petit Train de la Mure, a scenic train ride in La Mure, or the significant religious site of the Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette.

Visitors frequently highlight the impressive nature and scenic beauty. The Drac Footbridge is often described as 'truly impressive' with a 'magical landscape'. La Pierre Percée is praised for its 'beautiful site' and unique photo opportunities. The varied terrain and stunning views from mountain passes like Plan Collet Pass are also highly appreciated.

The region is enjoyable across seasons, but for hiking and exploring natural features, spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant flora. The region research mentions that in June, the flora around Plan Collet Pass is extraordinary, making it an ideal time for walks. Autumn also brings beautiful colors to the landscape. Winter offers opportunities for winter walks, though some higher passes might be more challenging.

The Canal du Beaumont offers scenic paths for walking, cycling, and horse riding. While enjoying the canal, it's advisable to exercise caution, especially with children and dogs, as the current can be strong in some sections. Three thematic and educational trails of varying difficulty are available, with the shortest starting directly from Saint-Laurent-en-Beaumont.