Chateau de Miolans

Perched on a rocky outcrop 550 meters high, Miolans Castle is one of the most impressive fortified sites in the Alps. Once the residence of the Lords of Miolans, one of Savoy's most powerful families, it was converted in the 16th century into a formidable state prison by the Dukes of Savoy. Its imposing military architecture, featuring successive ramparts and an 11th-century keep, highlights its strategic role at the crossroads of the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys. A tour of Miolans is an "extravagant" dive into the region's dark and glorious past. Visitors can explore the prison cells that once held famous figures like the Marquis de Sade, while also admiring the refined Gothic chapel. The journey ends at the top of the keep, providing a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of Mont Blanc and the Lauzière mountain range. Miolans is not just a ruin; it is a living monument that dominates the valley with undiminished power and majesty.