Briançon
At 1,326 m, Briançon is the highest town in France (a sub-prefecture). Its Vauban citadel, fortified in the late 17th century, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008 along with Vauban’s other major sites. You climb up the Grande Gargouille, a sloping street split by a channel, to the collegiate church and the ramparts; the Têtes, Salettes and Château forts overlook the town.
In winter, Serre Chevalier (250 km of pistes advertised) begins at the town’s doorstep; in summer, the Écrins and the Clarée valley are close by.
Montgenèvre
On the way, the Montgenèvre pass (1,850 m) is open all year. The border village is a ski resort linked to the Italian Vialattea, and in summer a stopover for walks and cycling.
Practical information
- By road: about 1 h 20 via the Fréjus tunnel, the A32 motorway to Oulx, Cesana and the Montgenèvre pass. In summer you can return via the Col du Lautaret and the Galibier (long, but magnificent).
- Car parks at the foot of the citadel; the old town can be visited on foot in two hours.
- [[À COMPLÉTER PAR SAM]] (une adresse ou un conseil à Briançon ?).