History

The Fort was built in 1630 by the House of Savoy and named 'Fort Traverset'. In 1860, Savoy is incorporated into France. New fortifications were erected in 1892  to prevent Italian attacks. They were renamed « La Redoute Ruinée » in tribute to the old buildings that were destroyed by French during the revolution, President Félix Faure unveiled them in 1897.

Between the two wars, they served as a training camp for mountain infantrymen. Because of their strategic situation, fierce battles broke out there during the second world war.

Access

From La Rosière, take the Roches Noires chairlift to reach the 'Roc Noir', strategic point towering at 2346m. Lifts are open Sunday to Thursday, from the 4th of July until the 26th of August, 9h45 to 12h00, 13h45 to 16h45.

Le Roc Noir is a perfect picnic spot, it has an orientation table and features a panoramic view. From there the trail leading to La Traversette pass is an easy 40 minute walk (one-way).

From the Fort, you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view over the pass and on the Mont-Blanc range.