The Chartreuse range rises between Belledonne, from which it is separated by the Isère valley, and the plains of northern Dauphiné. The names of its summits - Chamechaude, Grand Som, Dent de Crolles, Granier, Charmant Som and Grande Sure - are strangely evocative.

 Its reputation owes a great deal to the first Carthusian monastery founded, in the mountain wilderness, by Saint Bruno in 1084. There are several well-established family resorts - Petites Roches, Saint Pierre de Chartreuse, Col de Porte and Le Sappey. It is also a preferred location for certain fine weather activities, such as hang-gliding and paragliding. The main town in the area is Voiron.

Ressorts

• Le plateau des Petites Roches
• La Ruchère/St Christophe
• Le Sappey en Chartreuse
• Le Planolet
• Saint-Pierre de Chartreuse
• Vallée des Entremonts