Discover Aiton through several distinct themes: historic buildings, a walking trail through the wine-growing landscape, local wine production and fishing. Fort d'Aiton connects the area's history with a panorama of the Massif des Bauges; the Chemin des Vignes offers a different perspective on the landscape. This lets you shape your stay around the interests that bring you to Aiton.
Architectural history and special places
The Palais d'Aiton, which no longer exists, was built in the early 18th century on a promontory above the confluence of the Arc and Isère rivers. Fort d'Aiton was built between 1875 and 1880 on the ruins of a bishop's palace and comprised seven casemates. The fort offers a panorama of the Massif des Bauges. The palace and the fort thus represent different historical periods in Aiton.
The grounds of Fort d'Aiton are open to visitors free of charge every day throughout the year. Check access information before your visit, as it may change. The Église Saint-Laurent d'Aiton was built in 1700 and holds the remains of Cardinal Jean de Ségovie. Contact the town hall about visits; check visitor information in advance.
Another way to explore military history is the interactive Secret DĂ©fense trail. It focuses on the military installations between Aiton and Saint-LĂ©ger and comprises seven missions over seven stages. This differs from viewing individual buildings: the subject is presented here as a trail with several stops.
Trails, landscapes and fishing
The Chemin des Vignes is a short walking trail through Aiton's vineyard landscape, with views over the valley. While the fort offers a view towards the Massif des Bauges, this trail passes through the vineyards and turns your attention to the valley. Trail conditions may vary depending on the season.
Aiton also includes a Natura 2000 zone. If its boundaries are important for your plans, check the precise limits and management details with the relevant authority.
The Parcours de l'Aitelène is a certified fishing course in Aiton. The section best suited to fly fishing lies downstream of the Pont Vert; the other areas are intended for experienced anglers. This distinction helps you identify the right section for your fishing experience and preferred technique.
Wine-growing on the Coteau d'Aiton
Old Mondeuse vines are preserved on the Coteau d'Aiton, and rare varieties such as Persan, Douce-Noire, Etraire and Joubertin are also grown. Les Sartos du Bec is a wine producer in Aiton that makes blended wines from old red and rosé grape varieties, including Mondeuse, Persan and Douce Noire. Mondeuse, Persan and Douce-Noire link the variety of grapes grown on the Coteau with the blends described here.
At Les Sartos du Bec, visitors can meet the winegrowers at their estate. Check visitor information in advance, as details for visitors may change. This offers a way to discover Aiton's wine-growing tradition not only through the grape varieties mentioned, but also by visiting a local producer.
Discover more destinations: Valmeinier, Bramans, SĂ©ez, Doucy-en-Bauges, Saint-Genix-sur-Guiers, Challes-Les-Eaux, Saint-Oyen, Lanslebourg-Mont-Cenis
For the wider travel overview: Savoie.
