Grenoble is located in the south-east of France, just a 1.5-hour drive from Geneva, and combines nature, science and history in a unique way. Known as the “Capital of the Alps”, it offers an impressive mountain backdrop and is a popular starting point for winter sports, hikes and outdoor activities.
The city has a long history dating back to Roman times. Today, Grenoble is considered one of Europe’s leading technology and research centers – especially in the fields of physics, computer science and environmental sciences. Thanks to its many universities, research institutes and start-ups, Grenoble is often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of the Alps”.
The cityscape combines modern architecture with charming old town streets, lively squares and exciting museums. The Bastille – a former fortress that can be reached by cable car and offers spectacular views of the city and mountains – is particularly well-known.
On Saturday, August 30, the EVZ will face the Brûleurs de Loups in the second CHL Regular Season game away from home in Grenoble.
GETTING THERE
The city at the foot of the Alps can be reached from Zug in around 4.5 hours by car. If you prefer to travel by public transport, it is best to choose the connection via Zurich HB and Geneva to Grenoble – in just over 6 hours you can reach the home town of EVZ’s second opponent in the CHL.
The HNK fan car also still has a few seats available! For CHF 75 plus ticket costs (adults from 12 years CHF 22, children up to 11 years CHF 12) you can take part – departure is on Saturday, August 30 at 8.30 am at the guest sector of the OYM hall, the return journey takes place immediately after the game.
SIGHTSEEING 🏰
Anyone traveling to Grenoble should also plan enough time for sightseeing. Here are a few tips:
Bastille Grenoble
The Bastille is a historic fortress above the city and one of its most famous landmarks. It was extended in the 19th century and was once used for military defense. Today, it is best known for its spectacular panoramic views of Grenoble, the Isère Valley and the surrounding Alps. A special experience is offered by the cable car “Les Bulles” (“the bubbles”), whose round gondolas take visitors directly from the city center to the fortress hill. Once at the top, hiking trails, viewing platforms and a restaurant invite you to linger.
Around 15 kilometers south of Grenoble lies the impressive Château de Vizille, nestled in an extensive park with ponds, woods and an animal enclosure. The castle dates back to the 17th century and was once the residence of powerful aristocratic families. It became particularly famous for its role in the history of France: the “Assembly of the Estates General of Dauphiné” took place here in 1788 – a key moment that is considered a precursor to the French Revolution. Today, the castle is home to the Musée de la Révolution française, which sheds light on this formative era with an impressive collection of artworks and documents.
Around 15 km north of Grenoble in the municipality of Sassenage lies the natural monument of Les Cuves de Sassenage, right on the edge of the imposing Vercors massif. These caves have been considered one of the seven wonders of the Dauphiné region since the late Middle Ages. Formed around one and a half million years ago by the underground river Germe, the caves today offer an impressive spectacle of narrow galleries, stalactites, a special flint gallery and a still active river course – visitors can explore over a kilometer of caves with over 200 m of steep steps and low ceilings in places.
RESTAURANTS 🍴
Grenoble’s cuisine is characterized by the culinary traditions of the Alpine region and combines rustic mountain cuisine with French sophistication. Typical are hearty dishes with regional ingredients such as walnuts – the “or noir de Grenoble” -, cheese (especially Bleu du Vercors-Sassenage) and fresh vegetables. Classics such as gratin dauphinois, truite aux amandes (trout with almonds) or tourte aux noix (walnut cake) reflect the regional identity. The proximity to Italy has also left its mark, for example in the form of ravioles or polenta. Grenoble cuisine is down-to-earth, nutritious – and full of flavor.
Canopy
The Canopy is located on the roof of the PIXEL and is a bistro with a southern flair that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of all of Grenoble’s mountain ranges.
La Ferme à Dédé
Chez Dédé stands for genuine regional cuisine with heart. In the restaurants you can enjoy traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients. The focus is on authenticity, homemade quality and the taste of the terroir – simple, honest and delicious.
Ciel
The Ciel restaurant is located at the foot of the Bastille, on the slopes of the Chartreuse massif. The stylish brasserie offers simple, seasonal cuisine and a breathtaking panoramic view over Grenoble and the surrounding mountains.
HOTEL 🛏
Grenoble offers a wide range of hotels for every budget. The best way to get an overview is to visit the Grenoble Tourisme website. The Brûleurs de Loups Grenoble recommend the Mercure Grenoble Centre Porte Des Alpes.
THE GAME 🏒
The game between Grenoble and EVZ will kick off at 20:15 at the Patinoire Polesud. The reigning French champions are taking on the best teams from all over Europe for the fourth time this season – and are aiming for their first victory in the Champions Hockey League as “underdogs”.
«Grenoble is a highly motivated team that wants to prove itself on the international stage. Head coach Per Hånberg knows Swiss ice hockey inside out and always prepares his team thoroughly for every opponent.»
Michael Liniger, Head Coach EVZ
Per Hånberg coached SC Langenthal to the NLB championship title in his second season with the Oberaargauer in 2019. He then spent two years at the helm of EHC Kloten. His last stop in Switzerland was with EHC Visp. Players from Grenoble also have connections to Switzerland – 37-year-old forward Sacha Treille is the brother of Geneva coach Yorick, goalie Jakub Stepanek played a total of 31 games for SCB in the 2015-16 season and Canadian François Beauchemin played for the Ticino Rockets (48 games) and HC Ajoie (2) in the 2021-22 season and for EHC Olten (54) two years later.
