Attractions and Places To See around Montcarra - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Montcarra, a village located in the Isère department of France, offer a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. This region, part of the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes, is characterized by its traditional earthen houses and cultural sites such as the Eglise Saint-François de Sales. Visitors can explore designated natural areas like the Etang de Gôle, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The area provides opportunities to discover local heritage and natural landscapes.
Best attractions…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Étang de la Rosière
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Chateau de Chapeau Cornu
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Morestel Medieval Town and Castle
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Saint Joseph Chapel
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ViaRhôna Gravel Section Between Groslée and La Balme
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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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Lovely view of the pond. A little cool spot when it's hot.
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Hello, is this suitable for road biking? Or only for gravel? Thanks 🙂
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A pretty, medieval town that is certainly worth more time to visit than we could take while driving through.
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Beautiful cycle paths in a wonderful location.
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Lovely little town. The music festival is particularly recommended.
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Chapeau Cornu Castle was originally a fortified house built on the site of an ancient Roman camp. Between 800 and 1100, feudalism took hold. The sovereigns of Vienna and the Bishop created “rear fiefdoms” to ensure security and repel attackers. In the 12th and 13th centuries, there were two allied families: the Capellas and the Cornutis. It is by derivative of these 2 Latin names that “Chapeau Cornu” was born. In 1300, Amédée de Rossilon was governor of Chapeau Cornu. He left this property to his nephews Pierre and Louis Chapel. After Pierre's death in 1358, Louis succeeded him. Pierre will leave 2 daughters, one of whom Antonia marries the Knight Etienne Laure, Lord of Veyssillieu. The latter was killed by the English while fighting under Duguesclin. His son Jacquemont Laure avenged him and his daughter Béatrice married Imbert de Groslée, Seneschal of the King, in 1413. His sons and descendants remained in Chapeau Cornu until 1650. It was in 1601 that Chapeau Cornu took the name Château. But in 1638, the Castle fell into disuse. The last occupants, the Matthieu de Rame couple, left no children and in 1693, the property passed to Aymard Micha de Burcin. He expanded the estate through multiple purchases and died in 1755, donating all his property to his cousin Philippe Guillaume de Grammont. After the storming of the Bastille on the night of July 25 to 26, 1789, “the great fear” began. A band of rioters, determined to destroy the property of the squires, arrived in Chapeau Cornu at 1 a.m. The steward at the time had the idea of treating them as guests and opened the doors of the wine cellars to them. The damage underground is impressive: the undrinked wine is emptied but the castle remains intact. After the Revolution, the castle was purchased by Jean André Barge from the de Certeau family. He diverted the bed of the stream coming from the hill which then passed into the castle. He had the large buildings to the south-east and east built on the vault. Ruined, he sold part of the land to people from Vignolles. In 1855, the castle and 80 hectares surrounding it were bought by his son Ferdinand de Certeau. The estate remained in the family until 1891. The Bourgoin Court then ordered a judicial liquidation and had the property sold in several lots. Source: Vignieu website
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Montcarra?
Montcarra is home to the Espace Naturel Sensible Etang de Gôle, an ancient pond recognized for its rich natural heritage, diverse flora, and fauna. It features a discovery trail, reed beds, and forests, ideal for family strolls and observing protected species. Additionally, the Étang de la Rosière offers another protected natural place for walks and hikes.
What historical landmarks can I visit in Montcarra itself?
In Montcarra, you can visit the Eglise Saint-François de Sales, a Neo-Romanesque church from 1859. Inside, it houses a beautiful polychrome and gilded wooden Virgin of the Apocalypse and the unique Catafalque dit 'Mort en Bois', a rare wooden funeral effigy. The village also features traditional Maisons en Pisé (earthen houses), the restored communal bread oven Le Four du Lyobard, and several historic Lavoirs (washhouses).
Are there any medieval sites near Montcarra?
Yes, nearby you can explore the Morestel Medieval Town and Castle, a superb medieval-looking city that is certainly worth visiting. Another historical site is the Chateau de Chapeau Cornu, a fortified house built on the site of an ancient Roman camp, which you can appreciate from the outside.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Montcarra?
The Espace Naturel Sensible Etang de Gôle is ideal for families, offering a pleasant discovery trail with games and picnic tables. The Étang de la Rosière is also a protected natural area suitable for family walks. The Morestel Medieval Town and Castle is another family-friendly option for exploring history.
What hiking opportunities are available around Montcarra?
Montcarra offers several hiking trails, particularly around the Etang de Gôle. You can find routes like the 'Old Washhouse of Montcarra – The Gôle Pond loop' and 'The Gôle Pond loop from Montcarra', with options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. For more details and routes, visit the Hiking around Montcarra guide.
Can I go cycling near Montcarra?
Yes, the area around Montcarra is suitable for cycling. There are various routes for touring bicycles and road cycling, including loops that pass by historical sites like the Chateau de Chapeau Cornu. You can find detailed routes in the Cycling around Montcarra guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Montcarra guide.
Are there any specific trails for gravel cycling?
Yes, a notable option is the ViaRhôna Gravel Section Between Groslée and La Balme. This part of the ViaRhôna is well-laid out, alternating between fields and undergrowth, offering a pleasant experience for gravel cyclists.
How can I learn more about Montcarra's heritage?
The 'Nature et Patrimoine de Montcarra' association provides information on walking tours and commented visits. Resources, including audioguides and smartphone applications, are available to help you explore the village's heritage further. You can also find more information on the local tourism website: balconsdudauphine-tourisme.com.
When is the best time to visit Montcarra for outdoor activities?
The Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region generally offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, temperatures are mild, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural sites like the Etang de Gôle.
Are there dog-friendly trails or areas around Montcarra?
Many of the natural trails and outdoor areas around Montcarra, such as those around the Etang de Gôle and Étang de la Rosière, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in protected natural areas.
What unique or 'hidden gem' attractions can I find in Montcarra?
Beyond the main church, the Catafalque dit 'Mort en Bois' inside the Eglise Saint-François de Sales is a truly unique historical artifact, being the only one of its kind in Northern Isère. The restored communal bread oven, Le Four du Lyobard, and the various historic Lavoirs (washhouses) also offer a glimpse into the village's authentic past and local life.
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