Sightseeing in Briancon - what to see. Complete travel guide

Briancon is an ancient city with rich historical heritage. It was mentioned for the first time in the 8th century B.C. Starting from its creation this city was performing the role of a powerful military base. Even today tourists can visit 8 forts that rise proudly on the hills of Alps. These forts are connected with each other through a chain of underground galleries making the city even more unassailable. Briancon was totally independent for a long time and it was officially included into the territory of France only in 1349.

The bridge that connects Guisane and Duras rivers is considered one of the biggest sights of the city. The bridge was built in 1722 and was made in the form of one arc 56 meters high. The length of the opening estimates 40 meters. This is a truly unique architectural creation and you will not see anything similar to it. An ancient fortress is also one of the most notable historical buildings. This protection facility is in a good condition even nowadays and the fort is surrounded by cozy narrow streets. If you make a walk on any of them you will see many old buildings, unusual houses and ancient churches on your way.

Today Briancon is known as a popular ski resort. Serre-Chevalier borough is, probably, the most visited. Many large hotels here have own lifts that deliver tourists right to the beginning of ski slopes. Here you will find routes either for beginners or for professionals. People who don’t know how to ski can visit alpine ski schools. Sport inventory can also be rented here. In order to make rest even more comfortable and enjoyable, many café and restaurants are opened near ski slopes, so you can make a pause at any time, get some rest and relax drinking a cup of delicious coffee or tea. The National Park Ecrins is located around 20 kilometers away from the city. Tourists can visit this park and walk on amazing mountain meadows, visit several local villages and get acquainted with the lifestyle of local people. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Briancon attracts not only alpine ski fans, it is really fascinating to visit this town during any season. Roaming through the town is very interesting because of a great number of workshops and souvenir shops where one can buy different presents.

One of the Briancon historical symbols is St. Jacob’s Chapel, which has almost completely retained its look since the day of its building. One can find an ancient chancel and icons in there and the atmosphere inside is still the same. A row of popular national restaurants is situated not far from the chapel and, moreover, there are some shops, which sale local food production.

The most fascinating affair is a long walk though the town. This way one can see various monuments and unique historical buildings all over the place. Walking lovers should consider the fact that the streets in Briancon are really steep and the long walk can be very difficult.

Modern Briancon is famous not only due to first-rate alpine skiing tracks, but for great sanatoria. Many tourists choose them for their family rest. The service level and facility range in Briancon sanatoria can be compared to the prestigious hotels. The resort is famous for its salubrious climate and that is why mountain walks can be added to the wellness rest.

The cultural rest can be diversified by visiting the local theatre. It was opened several years ago and is situated in a beautiful modern building, constructed according to the style of the past. Not only plays, but concerts and other cultural activities are held there.

Inside the ancient Briancon fortress one can find very interesting local lore museum. The exposition here occupies three stores. It includes thousands of historical artefacts, among them important documents, ancient arms collections and masterpieces. The considerable part of this exposition is dedicated to the alpine nature. The museum visitors can get to know, what animals and birds inhabit local forests. This museum is for free, and the obligatory tour part is the documentary about the Briancon history.