Tour des Secrets n°11 itinerary - From Le Cernix to Cohennoz

The church of Crest-Voland, which is dedicated to the Nativity of Our Lady, was built between 1863 and 1866 on the site of the old 16th century church.The neo-Gothic style church has a single nave with three spans, separated by granite pillars, and a large, low-built chancel. Note the beautiful stained glass windows installed in 1913, the bright colours of the paintings inside and the altars made from white Carrare marble. The bell tower houses a collection of ten bells which ring regularly everyday.

Originally dedicated to St Claude, this chapel existed already in 1677. Rebuilt around 1850 and placed under the protection of Ste Marie. Look out for its polygonal bell tower, neo-classical altar and golden statue of the Virgin Mary. Recently restored.NB: this chapel is not open. You can only see it from the outside.

A simple wayside shrine in 1663, the chapel dedicated to Saint Aubin and Saint François de Sales was blessed in 1668. The facade has a recess, font and the date of the blessing. The tavaillon-covered roof is topped with an open pyramid-shaped pinnacle.

Originally Cohennoz was part of the parish of Héry-sur-Ugine, up until it obtained its independence in 1766. The church was built in the village centre in 1781 and dedicated to St Pierre-aux-Liens.The church in Cohennoz has a distinct charm, largely because of its isolated location and the curios it houses. It is a modest building, still standing in its graveyard. Its design is simple, with just one nave and no pillars, topped with quite a simple bell tower. Inside, the space is decorated and furnished in abundant fashion. The white walls are decorated with geometric, symbolic and floral patterns whilst the beams are coloured red and blue. There are no murals or paintings. The church furniture is eclectic. The cabinet of holy oils is baroque in style. The pulpit is very lovely. Several of the statues date from the 19th century. The modest altar is made from white and pink marble. The side altars are more ornate, dedicated to the Virgin and Child and to St François de Sales. Reliquaries stand in front of the altars.

Discover this unique collection of miniature mountain tools and traditional local objects. Not to be missed, the interactive displays give an idea of the alpine flora and fauna to be found in the mountains.Young and old alike will enjoy this warm place: its unique collection of miniature mountain tools, made by school students hundred years ago in manual work class, and its imposing interactive mountain display with alpine fauna and flora. Curious and passionate people are much awaited! Child-friendly : stroller access, free for children under 6yo.