Le Taillefer

Le Taillefer is a mountain peak in the Dauphiné Alps that rises to 2,857 meters and forms a distinctive silhouette visible from Grenoble on the southeastern horizon. The summit serves as the main peak of the Taillefer Massif with steep rock formations and varied slope angles.

The mountain takes its name from the reddish color of its rocks, which early settlers connected to the ore processed in local blacksmith workshops. This link to mining and metalworking traditions shaped how the region understood the land for centuries.

Military personnel installed a statue of Saint Eloi, the patron saint of blacksmiths, at the summit in 1998, creating a connection with local metallurgic traditions.

The climb starts from Combe Oursière at 1,670 meters, following a marked trail that passes Lake Poursollet before the steep final push to the summit. Good weather and mountain hiking experience are important for this route.

A statue of Saint Eloi, patron saint of blacksmiths, was installed at the summit in 1998 by military personnel, linking the peak to metalworking traditions of the region. The massif also contains 28 protected habitats within the Natura 2000 network, making it an important conservation area.