- Stage town for the second time
- Commune in Isère (38)
- Population: 21,900 (Voironnais and Voironnaises)
The town hosted a stage start in 1977, when Joachim Agostinho went on to win in Saint-Étienne. Last August, it also joined the select club of towns that have hosted stages of two different Grand Tours, and fans there had the added pleasure of celebrating David Gaudu’s capture of the Vuelta’s red leader’s jersey. The Groupama-FDJ leader had won the day before in Italy and skilfully manoeuvred to finish ahead of Jonas Vingegaard, with whom he was tied on time after the opening four stages.
Église Saint-Bruno de Voiron
Construction : 1864 to 1883
Style : Neo-Gothic
History : built to replace the smaller Saint-Pierre church, it was designed by diocesan architect Alfred Berruyer. Funding was provided through donations from the Carthusian monks and the public. The church opened its doors in 1872.
Characteristics : 67 m long, 19 m wide and 22 m high at the nave. The bell towers rise to 67 m.
Listing : Monument historique since 2022.
Caves de la Chartreuse
History : production and distribution site of the famous liqueur made by the Carthusian Fathers. The associated museum retraces the history of the Carthusian Order from 1084 to the present day. The site includes workshops, some dedicated to the preparation of cocktails made with Chartreuse.
Chocolaterie Bonnat
Foundation : 1884
History : one of the oldest chocolate factories in France, founded by Félix Bonnat. The company created classics such as *Pavés de Voiron* and *orangettes*, and inspired Tim Burton for the universe of *Charlie and the Chocolate Factory*. Bonnat roasts and conches its own beans, revives extinct varieties and supports fair trade. It has shops in Voiron, Paris and Tokyo.
Musée Mainssieux
Creation : 1989
History : the museum was established from the bequest of painter Lucien Mainssieux (1885–1958). It presents works by Mainssieux and from his collection, including pieces by Courbet, Corot and Renoir.
Characteristics : four themed rooms trace the artist’s life, work and travels, as well as his relationship with the Mediterranean.
Label : Musée de France.
