Roche Veyrand Via Ferrata
March 19, 2026
Cirque de Saint-Même in Chartreuse
Waterfalls, gorges and a refreshing walk in Chartreuse
A must-see just a few minutes from Le Passage
The Cirque de Saint-Même, located in the heart of the Chartreuse massif, is one of the most remarkable natural sites around Saint-Pierre-d’Entremont. This spectacular walk at the bottom of a narrow valley, punctuated by several waterfalls, is one of the must-do activities in Chartreuse. Easily accessible and refreshing in summer, the site also offers great photo spots and perfect places to relax by the water. Ideal for a half-day trip, whether as a couple, with family, or simply to get some fresh air without going far.
On foot: ~1 h
routes depending on level
A site shaped by water
The Cirque de Saint-Même is the source of the Guiers Vif river. Here, water emerges from the rock, fed by karst springs from the massif, before flowing through a series of waterfalls and natural pools. Water is everywhere: it shapes the stone, cools the air, accompanies the walk, and gives the place a unique atmosphere, almost timeless.
The high cliffs surrounding the cirque form a natural enclosure. Depending on the season and light, the rock tones range from light grey to golden beige, contrasting with the deep green of forests and pastures. For those who wish to discover other natural sites and walking ideas in Chartreuse, the region offers a wide variety of landscapes accessible year-round.
A living and preserved landscape
The Cirque de Saint-Même is not just a spectacular site, it is also a living environment. Meadows sometimes host grazing animals, forests shelter discreet wildlife, and trails allow you to cross different natural settings in a short time. In spring, water flow is abundant and the waterfalls are particularly impressive. In summer, the coolness of the site makes it a popular refuge on hot days. In autumn, the colors of the foliage completely transform the atmosphere.
Despite its popularity, the cirque retains an authentic character, thanks to careful management and areas deliberately left more wild. Located just a few minutes from our gîte in Chartreuse, it is an ideal outing to fully enjoy the mountain environment without long travel.
What to do at Cirque de Saint-Même?
The site is easily explored on foot. Several trails lead to the waterfalls, along the Guiers Vif, or up to higher viewpoints overlooking the cirque. The walks are accessible to a wide audience, with longer options for those who wish to extend the experience.
The cirque is also a starting point for other hiking routes in Chartreuse, connecting passes, alpine pastures, and surrounding plateaus. Some visitors come for a peaceful walk, others for a picnic, photography, or simply a contemplative break by the water. For stays with friends or family, group accommodation at Le Passage makes it easy to explore the most beautiful sites in the massif.
How to get to Cirque de Saint-Même?
From Saint-Pierre-d’Entremont, access to the Cirque de Saint-Même is simple and quick.
- By car: about 10 to 15 minutes. From the village, follow the direction to Cirque de Saint-Même via the departmental road. A parking area is available near the site, allowing access to the trails on foot.
- On foot or by bike: for more active visitors, it is possible to reach the cirque via roads and paths starting from the village. The route offers beautiful views over the valley and a gradual immersion into the landscape.
Once there, access to the waterfalls and trails is exclusively on foot, in order to preserve the site and fully enjoy its natural atmosphere. To prepare your stay and discover more ideas for outings around the village, you can also explore our selection of activities and visits around Saint-Pierre-d’Entremont.
A must-see experience in Chartreuse
The Cirque de Saint-Même perfectly embodies the spirit of Chartreuse: powerful yet accessible nature, landscapes shaped over time, and a constant invitation to slow down. Whether for a short walk or a full-day outing, the place leaves a lasting impression through its beauty and simplicity. For those looking for a comfortable base to explore the region, Le Passage allows you to fully enjoy a mountain stay, close to the massif’s most beautiful natural sites.
