Virtual tour of the passes
A bit of a physical challenge with the reward of visiting the Esseillon Forts.
Description
A loop itinerary taking you down to the Arc riverbank on a singletrack path with a few steep sections. You'll then climb up to Aussois via the Esseillon Barrier, AKA the Esseillon Forts.
After following the River Arc on a pleasant track, things get a little trickier on a narrow path with a few steep sections. Rest assured, this is only for a short distance, before another, much gentler track takes you back to Aussois.
The Esseillon Barrier is a succession of five fortifications.
Built during the 19th century on a rocky sill closing off the upper Arc valley (Maurienne Valley) upstream from Modane, the purpose of these fortifications was to protect the Cisalpine area of the kingdom of Sardinia from French invasion. It comprises four forts and a redoubt which bear the names of their contemporaneous members of the House of Savoie. Two of them are listed historical monuments.
Departs from: Resort of Aussois
Period of opening
From 01/05 to 01/11.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Equipment & services
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Picnic area
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Parking nearby
Prices
Free access.
Localisation
The start of the course is at the Base de Loisirs de la Buidonnière in Aussois.
I'll get there by bus: Line S52 - Longecôte stop (bus equipped with a bike trailer depending on day and schedule).
By car: park in the parking lot at the Base de Loisirs.
