My son is studying abroad in Grenoble so we are going for a visit the last week of March. Flying in and out of Paris. Thought we would train down to Grenoble after we arrive to spend the weekend with him but then we 7 more days to explore the area. Some of the areas we were looking at were Annecy, Chomonix, Perouges. We figured we would finish in Paris and explore there the day before we leave. Looking for other ideas. Also wondering if its better to get a train pass or rent a car. Any hotel recommendations are appreciated too. Thanks!
Posted by
S.F. Bay Area, CA, United States
1878 posts
I highly recommend Annecy and Chamonix. The French Alps region is highly underrated. You don't want a train pass, I'm sure point to point tickets would be cheaper. We drove in that region as part of a longer itinerary. Annecy can be tricky to drive in and parking is scarce. We stayed Hotel des Alpes from Rick's book back in 2010, not sure if it's still in the book but it was fine. Check with your hotel about parking, they usually have special deals with one of several garages--but not with all the garages. You have to know which one you need to go to, so ask in advance. Chamonix lifts are much more economical with a multi-day pass. We only visited on a day trip. This was in May and it tends to cloud up at high altitudes in the afternoon that time of year, I later learned. We did have clouds and did not take the lifts but took the rack railroad up to the Mer de Glace which was spectacular. People take Alaska cruises to view a glacier from a mile away but we walked right into one.
Posted by
Nice, France & San Francisco
713 posts
Keep your schedule flexible in order to go the mountains, the weather can really limit your choices.
Be sure to include Lyon as a day trip, about 75 minutes away, and it should not be too difficult. Wonderful food, sights, old town and pretty easy to get in and out of, considering it's size. There are also some fine, fine restaurants (3*) in the area and surrounding towns, if that is your thing.
Posted by
San Francisco
14980 posts
Hi,
If you're into the famous historical event associated with the area of Grenoble, go to Laffrey, ca. 15 miles south. . I believe it's on Route 85.
Posted by
1 posts
Following your post. Our daughter, too, is studying in Grenoble (Grenoble Ecole de Management) & we will visit in March during her Spring Break. She’s traveling to Annecy next weekend for Holiday. Anxious to hear if she would like to return & serve as our guide. I trust your son is enjoying his adventure as much as our daughter. So happy for them
Look forward to seeing more recommendations on this forum. Regards, Beth. Houston,TX