“La Redoute Ruinée” fort

FORT DE LA REDOUTE RUINÉE: A MONUMENT STEEPED IN 400 YEARS OF HISTORY

The ruined fort is perched at an altitude of 2,400m. It can be accessed via the Roches Noires chairlift in summer. In winter, the Fort chairlift stops right next to its namesake. In both seasons, you can drink in the breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and wraparound views of the Alpine peaks.

The Fort was built in 1630 by the House of Savoy and was named “Fort Traverset”. After the annexation of Savoy to France in 1860, and as a defence against Italian attack, a new fort was built in 1892 with the name “Fort de la Redoute”.Between the two World Wars, the Fort was a training ground for the Chasseurs Alpins (mountain infantrymen). Due to its strategic position, it was the site of many a deadly battle during the Second World War.

 ACCESS

From La Rosière, take the Roches Noires Express chairlift then walk to the Roc Noir, a viewpoint located at an altitude of 2,346m. This is an ideal picnic spot that boasts a viewpoint indicator and panoramic views. From here, follow the path to the Col de la Traversette: an easy walk taking around 40 minutes (one-way). From the Fort, drink in the wraparound views of the Petit Saint-Bernard pass and Mont Blanc.