From Val Cenis Bramans to the Forts
Description
Set out to conquer the Esseillon forts. From one side of the Arc river to the
other you'll take a magical leap back in time. This shady walk takes you on
a journey to discover two hundred years of local history. Ever unperturbed,
the Redoute Marie-Thérèse awaits you!
Set off at a brisk pace on the Chemin du Petit Bonheur, a trail cherished by
locals, and take in the invigorating scents of spruce and fir trees. Under the
watchful eye of the green woodpecker, you'll only hear the sound of its beak
on the weathered tree trunks.
Standing proud on its unconquerable promontory, the giant of the valley offers
you a journey into the military history of Haute Maurienne Vanoise, that takes
just a few minutes. A true emblem of the valley, Redoute Marie-Thérèse has
become the iconic representative of the five Esseillon forts. Awe-inspiring?
To say the least! Their construction began in 1817 to protect the kingdom
of Piedmont-Sardinia from possible French attacks. Massive, monumental,
they form a row at the narrowest point of the valley.
And what about Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge) as sensational as its height
above the gorges is breathtaking? But fear not, even the most faint-hearted
have managed to cross it, so you can do it too!
Technical informations
11 km
|
max. 1334 m
min. 1115 m
350 m
350 m
| |||
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
Esseillon forts
Four forts and a redoubt protecting Savoie: a treat for lovers of fortified heritage. Listed as Historic Monuments, the forts are named after the royal family of Piedmont-Sardinia.Erected between 1817 and 1834 against the possible aims of France, the barrier of Esseillon is composed of 5 forts spread over the communes of Aussois and Avrieux. The barrier of Esseillon includes 4 forts and a redoubt which bear the names of members of the Savoy family. They are built on the model of Montalembert which, contrary to Vauban's model, is based on the principle of perpendicular fortifications and cannon towers: - Fort Victor-Emmanuel (Grand Site du Département and Site of Regional Interest, this building has been the subject of a major restoration programme. - Fort Charles-Albert (only two small garrison buildings and the base of a tower remain of this building) - Fort Charles-Felix (destroyed on the orders of Napoleon III, when Savoy became part of France in 1860. Visiting the building is not recommended as it is dangerous. Romantic, the fort is nevertheless admirable from the road). - Fort Marie-Christine (Cultural Centre, gîte d'étape, restaurant, and gateway to the Vanoise National Park, places to visit and occasional activities). - Marie-Thérèse Redoubt (Interpretation Centre of the Fortified Heritage)
Bus stop N°382 : Les Glières
Bus stop N°382 "Les Glières" located in Bramans in the commune of Val Cenis.
Ligne S53 : Saint Michel de Maurienne - Bonneval sur Arc
Line linking Saint Michel de Maurienne to the villages of Val Cenis, Bessans and Bonneval/Arc. Please note that this line does not drop off passengers at Modane in the upward direction. On certain timetables, departure only from Val Cenis Lanslebourg.
Date and time
- From 01/05/2024 to 15/10/2024
- From 01/05/2025 to 15/10/2025
Additional information
Updated by
Communauté de communes Haute Maurienne Vanoise - 19/04/2024
www.cchautemaurienne.com
Report a problem
Reception conditions for animals
Pets allowed on leash only.
Open period
From 01/05 to 15/10.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Contact
Phone : 04 79 05 99 06
Email : info@hautemaurienne.com
Website :
www.haute-maurienne-vanoise.com
www.cchautemaurienne.com/transports-collectifs-sur-le-territoire
Data author
