Saint-Alban-des-Villards (73130)

ACCESS

A43 motorway exit n°26  - Off motorway go round roundabout and keep left in direction of the Vallée des Villards. Go through SAINT ETIENNE DE CUINES

PRESENTATION

This small, medium altitude village is very green and is surrounded by woods. At one time the village was renowned for its specialisation in brushing of chammy leather and chimney sweeping throughout the Alps.

Nowadays, due to its proximity to the « SYBELLES » ski area and the resort of  SAINT COLOMBAN DES VILLARDS, this small, picturesque village is home to 89 inhabitants and has many second homes which bring it to life during the summer and winter seasons.

The proximity of alpine skiing and ski trekking in the Merlet means all the pleasures of winter sports can be had in SAINT ALBAN DES VILLARDS.

During the summer you can enjoy the various walking trails of all levels and the diversity means something for everyone from family trails to technical hiking. The village flowers are to be admired during the summer season.

ACCOMMODATION

You will find gîtes sleeping 6, and one gîte d’étape  and séjour sleeping 29 people which are open all year round. See accommodation page.

HERITAGE

Large church built undoubtably during the 19th century to accommodate for all of the village's 1500 inhabitants.

The inside of this church displays some beautiful paintings which deserve to be restored, but no project is as yet in the pipeline. The belltower houses the largest bell in the Maurienne valley. The presbytery next to the church displays a sun dial.

ACTIVITIES

Winter is a ski trekkers paradise whatever your level. In the topological guide of the Vallée des Villards 60 circuits are listed and in St Alban des Villards alone 15 of these are to be found in the combe du Merlet which can be skied between December and mid-April.

Summer: walking is the main activity for summer that is accessible for everyone. For those who enjoy fishing come and catch some trout in our torrents (licence required). Just a short distance from the road to the mythical Glandon and Croix de Fer passes,  cycling enthusiasts might like to try to reach the top at 2000 m in altitude.

In the neighbouring village of  SAINT COLOMBAN DES VILLARDS there is a multitude of things to do. In winter there is alpine skiing, snowshoes and in summer try Via Ferrata, rock-climbing, tennis and entertainments organised by the Tourist Office - La Maison des  Villards  04 79 56 24 53