Briançon

The Cité Vauban, also known as Vieux Briançon, is an outstanding example of 17th and 18th-century military architecture. Since 2008, this impressive fortress, designed by Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, the famous military architect of Louis XIV, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its strategic location on a rocky spur high above the Durance Valley made Briançon a key point in the French Alps. As you explore the old town, you'll discover narrow, cobbled streets, historic buildings with colorful facades, and picturesque squares. The mighty city walls and fortifications, including the Porte de Pignerol and the Collégiale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Nicolas, bear witness to the site's military significance. From the upper sections of the city wall, you also enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the valley. Our tip: It's best to visit the Cité Vauban in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and capture the special light for photos. For a comprehensive exploration of the fortifications and the old town, you should wear comfortable footwear, as the paths are often steep and uneven.

The Collégiale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Nicolas in Briançon is an outstanding example of Baroque sacred architecture that seamlessly integrates into the city's fortifications. Built between 1703 and 1726, after a fire destroyed the previous church, it testifies to Briançon's resilience. Here you'll find an impressive church whose robust exterior reflects the city's military significance, while the interior offers an atmosphere of peace and contemplation. The Collegiate Church was built under the aegis of Vauban and is thus part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the fortifications. Its two striking bell towers define the silhouette of the Ville Haute. Inside, you'll discover several altars and religious artworks that reflect the region's history and faith. Our Tip: The best time to visit the church is early morning or late afternoon to experience the special lighting and avoid the crowds. For an impressive perspective and a great photo, position yourself on the surrounding fortress walls, from where you can capture the church in all its glory against the alpine backdrop.

The Pont d'Asfeld spans the Durance gorge with a single stone arch, connecting Briançon's old town with the Fort des Trois-Têtes on the other side. Vauban had already planned the crossing around 1700, but the bridge was only built in 1730 and 1731 under the Marquis d'Asfeld, Director General of Fortifications, after whom it is named. It belongs to the fortifications of Briançon, which are UNESCO World Heritage as part of the Vauban Fortifications. The view into the gorge and of the fortress walls is impressive. Our Tip: For photos of the bridge itself, take the path towards Fort des Trois-Têtes; the light is best in the morning.

The Prorel gondola lift provides an essential connection between the historic city of Briançon and the extensive ski resort of Serre Chevalier. Since its inauguration, it has enabled quick and comfortable access to the alpine altitudes, making it a central element of the local infrastructure. During the ride, you enjoy an impressive panoramic view over the UNESCO World Heritage fortified city of Briançon and the majestic peaks of the Hautes-Alpes. In summer, the mountain station serves as an ideal starting point for hikes, mountain bike tours, and paragliding, while in winter, it offers direct access to the ski resort's slopes. For the clearest view of the surroundings, a morning ride is recommended. To avoid the largest crowds, use the lift outside of peak hours or early in the morning. From the mountain station, there are excellent photo opportunities of the fortifications and the Durance Valley.

The Fort des Salettes is located above Briançon's old town and secured the access routes to the city and the path to Montgenèvre. Vauban proposed its construction after his first visit in 1692, but the redoubt was only built from 1709 to 1712, after his death. In the 19th century, it was expanded into a fort with bastions and casemates. It belongs to the Vauban fortifications of Briançon, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. From its walls, you can gaze over the Cité Vauban, the Durance Valley, and the surrounding peaks. Our tip: The ascent from the old town takes about half an hour. The fort is open mainly in summer, often with guided tours.

The Cité Vauban, Briançon's old town, is perched on a rocky spur above the Durance Valley. After a major fire in 1692, Vauban had the city re-fortified starting in the 1690s, with forts on the surrounding heights following in the 18th century. Since 2008, the fortifications have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage as part of Vauban's Fortifications.You stroll through steep, cobbled streets like the Grande Rue, with its central water channel, past defensive walls and gates such as the Porte de Pignerol and the Porte d'Embrun. The Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Nicolas towers above the rooftops. From the upper bastions, you gaze out at the mountains and the valley.Our tip: Early morning or late afternoon offers the most beautiful light and is quieter. Sturdy shoes are advisable, as the streets are steep and uneven.