The fort
Set on a spur that blocks the Susa valley, Exilles Fort was in turn Dauphinois, French and Savoyard: its position on the border made it one of the bolts of the Alps. The mysterious Man in the Iron Mask was held there from 1681 to 1687 before being transferred to the Île Sainte-Marguerite and then the Bastille. The present buildings date from the 19th century; the fort houses an Alpine troops museum and exhibitions.
The visit
- A route through the courtyards, casemates and ramparts, with views of the valley and the Cottian Alps.
- The village of Exilles at its foot: lanes, church, fountain.
- Combine with Susa (15 minutes further on) or Bardonecchia (20 minutes) for an Italian day out.
Practical information
- By road: about 55 minutes via the Fréjus tunnel then the valley road (SS24) or the A32 motorway.
- Seasonal opening (mostly April to October, weekends only out of season) and prices: check the tourist office website before setting off.