Artillery Fort of Champex

The Artillery Fort of Champex (Fort d'artillerie de Champex, also known as A 46) sits above the lake at Champex-Lac, in the municipality of Orsières in the Swiss canton of Valais. Carved into the mountainside, this Second World War fortification is now a museum run by the Proforteresse association.

Why was the fort built here?

The fort dates from the early 1940s and formed part of Switzerland's Alpine defence network. Its batteries were meant to cover infantry holding the Great St Bernard route, the road that leads toward Italy, and to keep watch over the Orsières area and the Val Ferret valley. It stayed a military secret for decades. In the Cold War, from the 1960s onward, it was also adapted to serve as an atomic shelter. The army retired it near the end of the 20th century, and it opened to visitors around the turn of the millennium.

What can you see inside?

The whole complex lies underground. Its winding galleries run for more than 600 metres, and the garrison could reach about 300 men. The guided route covers three zones:

• the troop quarters, where soldiers slept and lived,
• the command area,
• the combat section, with gun casemates and ammunition stores.

The original guns are gone. Most of what is on display was recovered later by Proforteresse. Visits are guided, so you get the history and daily routine explained as you walk the tunnels.

How do you plan a visit?

In summer the fort normally opens in the afternoons, Wednesday to Sunday, and outside those dates visits may be arranged in advance. Published sources give different hours and prices, so check proforteresse.ch or the Champex-Lac tourist office for the current schedule. Arrive about fifteen minutes before your tour. It stays cool and damp inside even on a hot day, so bring a warm layer and comfortable shoes. The fort can also be hired for private events and overnight stays.

How do you get to Champex-Lac?

Champex-Lac lies at roughly 1,500 m above sea level, above the town of Orsières, which is a stop on the way to the Great St Bernard Pass. A mountain road climbs from Orsières to the village. The fort is close to the lake, so a visit combines easily with a walk around Lac de Champex.

Frequently asked questions

Is the fort open all year?

Regular tours run mainly in summer. Outside the season, contact the operator to ask about a visit.

How long does the tour take?

The operator sets the tour length, so confirm it when you book. The route covers three zones: quarters, command and combat.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, provided they cope with the cold, dim corridors and stairs. The guide focuses on how soldiers lived and worked.

What else is nearby?

Lac de Champex, walking trails in the Mont Blanc massif and the neighbouring Val Ferret valley.