Fort Victor-Emmanuel in Savoie at Aussois

Lose yourself in the maze of this immense fort, built to house a garrison of 1,500 men. The superposition of these eight buildings, hugging the rock, makes this an exceptional site.

Wander freely through the fort to discover the parade ground, chapel, bread ovens and penitentiary. A number of via ferrata routes are available from the fort, the most original of which is to start at the fire hydrants and admire the vertiginous Devil's Gorge.

The Esseillon barrier was built in the early 19th century to guard against French invasion. The five Sardinian forts that make up the barrier are named after the sovereigns of the Savoy family. Built according to Montalembert's architectural principles, they are unique in France.