Culture & Gastronomy Published on 29/12/2023
Given the non-stop heatwaves, you’re probably looking for somewhere to cool off. The Pays de Gex has the place for you: Fort l’Ecluse.
It recently reopened after its annual closure and has had a little makeover. What a great reason to pay it a visit. How about making it a family day out?
Before we unveil our tailor-made schedule, here’s a bit of background for anyone who has yet to meet this giant built into the rock.
Fort l’Ecluse in a few words
Fort l’Ecluse is a military structure in Léaz. It was built on the ruins of a fortress founded between 1225 and 1277.
In terms of construction, the lower fort appeared in the 17th/18th century with a castle wall joined by a round tower, Porte de France gate and a parade ground leading to another gateway called Porte de Genève. Just so you know, the best gateway is the French one. Hold on, we’re not biased here 😉 Just see it for yourself!
You can feast your eyes on incredible views of the Rhône from the terrace at the top of Porte de France. The upper fort buildings appeared in the mid-19th century at height to protect the fort from any attacks coming from the mountain. There are 1165 steps carved into the rock taking you between both forts. Several artillery casemates and batteries/terraces wrap up the site.
Let’s start the day with… a guided tour.
As the saying goes, “actions speak louder than words”. So join Jean-Dominique, the man in charge of guided tours, to explore Fort l’Ecluse. We recommend a morning tour so you can make the most of the other activities at the fort.
He will spend an hour sharing the secrets behind this mysterious fort. Relive the site’s battles, everyday life and highs and lows. You will learn that the fort had several owners and often lost its battles, earning it the nickname: “the most useless fort in France.” But never mind that, we guarantee that you’ll grow fond of this stone giant that has been left abandoned several times over. Has our teaser tempted you? Here’s some useful information: Guided tours on Friday, Saturday and Monday at 11am, 1pm, 2.30pm and 4pm.
Plus, they’re free.
Ready for a trip back in time?
Next up we have… fort exhibitions
During your guided tour you will visit the famous casemates that set the scene for exhibitions. It’s time for a sport of culture, nature and contemporary art. Some rooms may have caught your eye, so let’s take a little look at the exhibitions before your visit:
- In the eye of the storm: have fun learning about this electrical phenomenon with hair-raising photos and items.
- Tangled: these brass wire artworks were made especially for Fort l’Ecluse.
- Little Rhinolophus: step into the world of the little bats that live in the upper fort.
- Deep in the valley: this immersive experience uses models and photos to introduce you to the fort’s history.
Which exhibition takes your fancy?
History makes you hungry! Time for a lunch break
We suggest you hop in your car and head to Route du Pont Carnot in Collonges (just a few minutes from Fort l’Ecluse) for lunch at La P’tite Quinette food truck. It has a buzzing atmosphere and the homemade burgers are delicious. The vegetarian burger is a winner. A real treat!
The afternoon is all about adventure!
Not afraid of heights? Good, because the activity we’re going to tell you about isn’t something you do on land! We won’t keep you in suspense any longer… It’s the upper fort’s adventure trail: Fort l’Ecluse Aventure. After a warm-up climbing the 1165 steps (because this activity is all about heights), all you need to do is get kitted out. Then take the leap with balance games, rope swings, suspension bridges, zip-lines and more.
Another heart-pumping activity: this via ferrata is for keen climbers as you do this one alone.
You’re a short walk away from the limestone cliff between the lower and upper forts.
Here’s some useful information before you jump in:
Altitude: 430/530m
Elevation: 150m
Route length: 400m
Route duration: 1.5 hr
Difficulty: AD
Let the music play at Fort l’Ecluse
Fort l’Ecluse isn’t just for history buffs! Jazz fans flock here too. It’s been 10 years since jazz joined forces with the fort to treat its visitors to incredible summer and evening concerts.
An experience to remember!
It’s free and there are shuttle buses running from Collonges-Fort l’Ecluse.
Check out the dates!
When you can’t hear jazz, you can hear the walls speak. Relive the history of the Fort with a fascinating sound and light show every Wednesday and Sunday in July and every Wednesday and Friday in August.
