 |
| 2168 Belledonne range |
Posted on 30.12.2015, 03.01.2016, 22.09.2016
Belledonne is a mountain range in the Dauphiné Alps (part of the French Alps) in southeast France, noted for the spectacular scenery, numerous ski areas, interesting geology, and a diverse range of alpine land types and uses. The southern end of the range forms the eastern wall of the mountains that surround the city of Grenoble. The highest point is the Grand Pic de Belledonne (2,977m).
 |
| 2185 Lakes in Belledonne range |
The range is delineated by several valleys, including the Grésivaudan Valley on the west, the Arc River to the north and the Romanche River to the south. The range counts dozens of peaks over 2,500m, more than 10 glaciers, and many alpine lakes. The Pas de la Coche pass is the only natural break point in the range, which is believed that Hannibal to have passed when he crossed the Alps with his army.
 |
| 2765 Achard Lake in Belledonne range |
The mountains are home to marmots, chamois, ibex mountain goats and grouse. Reportedly, wolves have returned since 1998, coming from Italy and the press regularly echoes complaints from shepherds about wolves attacking their sheep. The ibex had completely disappeared, but early 1983, 13 females and 7 males were brought in from Switzerland and by spring 2002, their population had risen to 900 heads.
Read more »