Grenoble, France

Grenoble is a city in southeastern France situated at the foot of the Alps where the Drac joins the Isère River. Located in the Rhône-Alpes region, Grenoble is the capital of the department of Isère. The proximity of the mountains make the city named "Capital of Alps." The population of the city (commune) of Grenoble at the 1999 census was 153,317 inhabitants. Grenoble is surrounded by mountains. To the north is the Chartreuse, to the south and west the Vercors, and to the east the Belledonne range. For the French it is the capital of the Alps, and the Tour de France regularly passes through Grenoble. The city is mainly built on the alluvial plain of the River Isere at an altitude of around 214 meters. Mountain sports are an important tourist draw for the city. Twenty ski stations surround the city, the nearest being Le Sappey-en-Chartreuse, which is about 15 minutes' drive away. Historically both Grenoble and the surrounding areas were sites of mining and heavy industry.Dr Mala - on arriving at GrenobleBusy little mountainous townDowntown trafficThe mountains behind GrenobleSome peaks are highMountains surrounding GrenobleCable car lift - for skiiers