Halfway between Le Bourg-d'Oisans and l'Alpe d'Huez, La Garde-en-Oisans dominates the vast Romanche plain. Its eleven hamlets rise between 720 and 1 m, making it one of the most vertical communes in France.
This historic village, mentioned since the Early Middle Ages, was the seat of the Chatellenie of Oisans. Its influential priory, founded in 1058, marked its history. Today, La Garde-en-Oisans combines tradition and modernity. Connected to the slopes of Alpe d'Huez by the chairlift in the hamlet of Maronne, it attracts ski enthusiasts in winter. In summer, its trails attract hikers and its roads cyclists. The Tour de France passes through it very regularly, as 10 of the 21 legendary bends leading to Alpe d'Huez are in its territory. La Garde-en-Oisans is a strategic location, with a magnificent and unobstructed view, where the Gardillones and Gardillons watch over the richness of their village suspended between nature and heritage.
Top 5
The essentials of La Garde-en-Oisans
La Garde-en-Oisans is one of our gem villages to discover. Here are our top 5 things not to miss during your stay in Gardillon!
1
The climb to Alpe d'Huez
The legendary climb of the Tour de France has 10 of its 21 bends passing through La Garde: from bend 21 to bend 12. Come and take on the challenge of this merciless climb, 14 km long with a positive elevation gain of 1 m.
2
Hamlet of Maronne, access to the Alpe d'Huez area
Do you know the access between La Garde-en-Oisans and the Alpe d'Huez area? While the winding road may seem like a challenge, the convenience of the Maronne chairlift allows you to avoid the crowds, in an enchanting setting. Remember to buy your pass in advance, as there are no points of sale on site.
3
Stage 1 of the GR® 54
The GR® 54, one of the three major hiking trails in the French Alps, along with those of Mont Blanc and Vanoise, is distinguished by its wild nature and its difficulty over 3 stages. On the first day, you will cross La Garde-en-Oisans : its hamlets, its forest and the glacial gorges of Sarenne.
4
Perched road of the Roche
A remarkable route on one of the most spectacular roads in Oisans, La Roche, opened in 1902, connects La Garde-en-Oisans à Auris-en-Oisans. Along the cliffside, the route is narrow, winding, dizzying and magnificent! The panorama over the Romanche plain and the Oisans massifs is a must-see!
5
Chapel of the Holy Trinity
In the pretty hamlet of Le Rosay, you'll find a chapel built in the 17th century from local stone. One of the stained-glass windows is particularly remarkable, created by the world-renowned artist Arcabas.
Highlights
In La Garde and its surroundings
Hors piste, free ride, ski de randonnée – Bureau des Guides et Accompagnateurs
Tourist information
Bourg-d'oisans Tourist Office
Located in the heart of the town, the Office welcomes an international clientele all year round. It has free WIFI access 24/24.