Haute-Savoie (French Alps)Gorges du Fier

The Gorges du Fier is a located in Lovagny, 6 miles east of Annecy in the French Alps. The gorges are in a narrow canyon and are only accessible via a footbridge built into the sides of the Fier River. The bridge is about 1,000 feet long and 82 feet above water. The bridge takes you though the gorges and ends with a nice view of the Fier River and an educational exhibit.

As the Gorges du Fier narrow the water can rise fast and there have been many floods over the years. It’s easy to spot the flood levels from the past as there are many markers near the souvenir shop.

The Gorges du Fier has a local legend. The story goes that the local Count of Montrottier wanted to check the faithfulness of his wife - Diane. So the count asked a young boy to keep an eye on her. Secretly the young boy was in love with Diane. The young boy being in love took his job very seriously and watched Diane attentively. The young boy discovered that Diane was having an affair with the count’s rival, the Count of Pontverre. Furious and heartbroken the young boy told the Count of Montrottier who decided to catch Diane and the Count of Pontverre in the act. A trap was set at the Gorges du Fier. The trap ended up going horribly wrong as the young boy fell into the Gorges du Fier when he tried to chase the Count of Pontverre. Since that event it is said that local villagers hear moans coming from the Gorges du Fier that are from the young boy who mourns his lost love.

The Fier River is 44 miles long and its source is in the ski village of Manigod, within the local Aravis Mountain Range.

The Gorges du Fier is open daily from March 15th to October 15th, hours very depending on the time of year. Admission is €5 for adults and €2.70 for children 7-15 and free for under 7.

Related Link:
The Gorges du Fier Official Website

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