Forts and castles around Briançon

Due to Briançon's strategic location on the border of Italy, several fortresses have been built over the centuries to protect the city against invaders. These forts are part of the "Forts de l'Esseillon", a series of fortifications from the 18th and 19th centuries to guard the border with Italy.

The main forts near Briançon are the Fort des Trois Têtes, the Fort du Randouillet and the Fort du Janus. These three forts are built on hills around the city and are connected by a network of old military, yes, gravel paths.

This tour along the military forts starts in the center of Briançon. You cycle towards the old medieval center that you reach through the city gates. On the south side you leave the old city center over the Porte de la Durance bridge. After you cross the bridge you start a climb towards Fort Dauphin, after which you head towards the Italian border at Montgenevre. On the way you pass old bunkers and climb through the forest towards the French ski village. You follow the gravel roads up, pass the ski stations and reach the ridge that leads to Fort Janus, the highest point of the route at 2500 meters.

Fort du Janus is built on a rocky hilltop overlooking Italian territory. You can understand why the French put the fort here to keep out intruders. The fort can be visited and has different floors and rooms such as gunpowder rooms, armories and sleeping quarters that are carved into the rocks.

You have now made the most altimeters. From here you cycle gradually to Fort Infernet 6 kilometers away. To reach this fortress, take a turn and cycle through hairpins to the fortification. From here you look out over the other side of the valley and you have an unobstructed view of Briançon.

A long hairpin descent back into the valley lies ahead. Halfway through you pass Fort d'Anjou, the last fortress of this tour. You descend and reach Briançon. Do you fancy homemade ice cream and coffee? Then go to Mastro Gelataio on the corner at the roundabout where you arrive.