A loop itinerary taking you down to the Arc riverbank on a singletrack path with a few steep sections. You'll then climb up to Aussois via the Esseillon Barrier, AKA the Esseillon Forts.
After following the River Arc on a pleasant track, things get a little trickier on a narrow path with a few steep sections. Rest assured, this is only for a short distance, before another, much gentler track takes you back to Aussois.
The Esseillon Barrier is a succession of five fortifications.
Built during the 19th century on a rocky sill closing off the upper Arc valley (Maurienne Valley) upstream from Modane, the purpose of these fortifications was to protect the Cisalpine area of the kingdom of Sardinia from French invasion. It comprises four forts and a redoubt which bear the names of their contemporaneous members of the House of Savoie. Two of them are listed historical monuments.
Departs from: Resort of Aussois
2- Cross-country - Blue - Les Forts
A bit of a physical challenge with the reward of visiting the Esseillon Forts.
2- Cross-country - Blue - Les Forts Aussois
About
Map references
Haute Maurienne Vanoise mountain bike map sold in the Tourist Offices
Topoguides references
Haute Maurienne Vanoise mountain bike booklet sold in the Tourist Offices
Further informations
Ground
1 1
Prices
Free access.
Period of practice
From 01/05 to 01/11.
Subject to favorable snow and weather conditions.
Contacts
Access
The start of the course is located at the Buidonnière d'Aussois Leisure Centre. In the summer season, possibility of taking bus line S52 (Modane - Aussois - Lanslebourg) and getting off at the "Le Centre" stop; bus equipped with a bicycle trailer every day except Saturday.
