Avrieux: Forts, Saint-Benoît Waterfall and Via ferrata

Avrieux brings together historic buildings, a striking natural site and a range of outdoor activities. If you are looking for a hotel in Avrieux, you can plan your stay around your own interests: the Forts of Esseillon and religious art offer cultural highlights, while the Saint-Benoît Waterfall, the Via ferrata du Diable and the Arc appeal to different nature and activity interests.

Forts of Esseillon and visits

The Forts of Esseillon are accessible by car year-round via the RD1006; there is a car park in front of the Redoute Marie-Thérèse. Road and parking conditions can vary seasonally, so it is a good idea to check before setting off. Another route to the forts leads via Avrieux and the Saint-Benoît Waterfall, along the former road between Avrieux and Aussois; be aware of seasonal road closures. Guided and self-guided visits are available at the Redoute Marie-Thérèse, and arrangements may vary seasonally. Fort Marie-Thérèse has housed the Centre d’Interprétation du Patrimoine Fortifié since 2007. When planning your visit, you can therefore take into account both the different types of visit and the fort’s interpretation centre.

Via ferrata du Diable and zip line

The Via ferrata du Diable links seven distinct sections to form a 3,760-metre circuit and includes seven routes for different ability levels. The total length describes the circuit, while the routes cater to different ability levels; these are two separate points of reference for understanding the offering. The via ferrata is accessible year-round, but weather or safety measures may affect access. Safety or maintenance conditions may also change route information, so check the latest conditions before setting out. The Parc du Diable includes the Tyrolienne des Anges, a zip line that is 240 metres long and 150 metres high.

Saint-Benoît Waterfall and river landscape

The Saint-Benoît Waterfall is a remarkable natural site, appreciated for its beauty, freshness and tranquillity. The waterfalls are about 50 metres high, and a designated picnic area provides a place to take a break. At the waterfall, stay on the marked trails to protect the fragile flora and limit erosion. Local conditions may change; follow the signs on site during your visit.

The Arc also offers a distinct connection to the landscape: it is a non-state-owned first-category river, home to brown trout and open to recreational fishing. Fishing rules and conditions may vary, so check the current guidance before fishing. This distinguishes the Arc as a river and fishing destination from the trails, waterfall scenery and historic buildings.

Church and sacred art

The Baroque Église Saint-Thomas Becket is located in Avrieux. Piedmontese and local artists designed and decorated it over several decades. For visitors interested in art, the church’s Baroque character and the long-standing work of artists from both backgrounds are key highlights.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Martin-De-Belleville, Le Pré, Saint-Paul, Épersy, Hermillon, Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne, Le Châtelard, Sardières.

For the broader travel overview: Savoie.