Massive and spectacular, forming the core of the valley's strategic system, the Tournoux fort was built from 1843 to protect against invasions from Italy.
Description
A stone colossus facing Italy
Perched on the mountainside between La Condamine-Châtelard and Saint-Paul-sur-Ubaye, Fort Tournoux is as impressive for its architecture as it is for its history. Nicknamed the military Versailles, it was built from 1843 to protect the Ubaye Valley from any invasion from the Col de Larche.
Built on several levels, from 1300 to 2000 meters above sea level, the fort includes casemates dug into the rock, galleries, barracks, batteries and forts connected by spectacular ramps and footbridges.
A strategic location during the two world wars, it now houses the memory of a military and technical feat unique in the Alps.
A fascinating site to explore, between heritage and panorama.
Other details
● Discover the Caurres Battery, the upper part of the Tournoux fortress. ● Approximately 2-hour outdoor hike, 3 km with 100 m of elevation gain. ● Please wear closed-toe shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather conditions (hat, water bottle, raincoat). ● Registration required online or at Ubaye Tourism offices.
Rates / opening
Prices
● Adult: €10
● Child (6-14 years): €5
● Family package: €25 (2 adults + 2 children aged 6 to 14)
● Free for children under 6
Opening
Monday, June 1, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Tuesday, June 2, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Thursday, June 4, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Friday, June 5th, guided tours at 2026 at 10am and 14pm.
Saturday, June 6, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Guided tours on Monday, June 8, 2026 at 10am and 14pm.
Tuesday, June 9, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Thursday, June 11, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Friday, June 12, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Saturday, June 13, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Guided tours on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 10am and 14pm.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Thursday, June 18, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Friday, June 19, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Saturday, June 20, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Monday, June 22, 2026, guided tour at 10am.
Tuesday, June 23, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Thursday, June 25, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Friday, June 26, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Saturday, June 27, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.
Guided tours on Monday, June 29, 2026 at 10am and 14pm.
Tuesday, June 30, 2026, guided tours at 10am and 14pm.