The hamlet of Planlebon

In the 18th century, as the population of the Belleville Valley continued to grow, even the most remote villages became permanent habitats and all usable plots were cultivated. Consequently, the hamlet of Planlebon had 36 inhabitants in 1773. They spent their winters cut off from the world. The Encombres valley takes its name from the heavy avalanche activity in the area. The archives hold the memory of an avalanche that submerged the inhabitants of the village as they went to Mass in the administrative centre. After 1850, the exodus depopulated the mountains and the isolated villages were abandoned. The hamlet of La Gittaz (pronounced La Gitte), located at the entrance of the valley, experienced the same evolution as Planlebon. Sunnier and accessible by vehicle, this village has been restored.