Combine cultural discoveries with an excursion, or devote your time mainly to the history of the town.
Museums and Architectural History
The Musée des Traditions Populaires presents rural life in Savoy through agricultural, craft and religious objects. The Musée d’Histoire et d’Archéologie takes a different approach: it traces the history of Moutiers and the Tarentaise from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Together, the museums offer different perspectives—through objects from rural life and through a long sweep of local and regional history.
The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre brings together Romanesque, Gothic and Neoclassical architectural elements and is classified as a historic monument. Its oldest parts—the choir, apse and bell tower—date from the 1020s. The building thus combines different architectural influences with very early structural elements. The Vieux Pont Saint-Pierre is also part of the town’s architectural history: it was built in 1785 and has been classified as a historic monument since 1980.
Art in Public Spaces and a Themed Trail
The Parcours Street Art de Moûtiers includes nearly forty monumental murals spread across the town. It complements the museums and historic buildings with a look at art in public spaces. The collection may change as works are added or removed.
Les lutrins du Patrimoine is a free themed walking trail in Moûtiers. Individual visits without a guide are available free of charge year-round. Alongside the museums, it offers another way to explore the town’s heritage, whether or not you’re planning a visit during the tourist season.
Walking Trails and Regional Connections
The Sentier Moûtiers–Montfort connects Moûtiers with the hamlet of Montfort and runs through the forest as a family-friendly hike. The route offers views across the valley, including views of Moûtiers. Weather and vegetation affect how clearly you can see the views. Before setting out, check trail conditions and waymarking, as both can change.
The Sentier Moûtiers–Salins-Fontaine offers a different connection: it links Moûtiers with the main settlement of Salins. The routes therefore have different points of interest—the forest and valley views on the Sentier Moûtiers–Montfort, and the main settlement of Salins on the other route. Moûtiers is also a gateway to Vanoise National Park; this regional connection complements the town’s cultural offerings.
Plan a Beaufort Cheese Tour
The Coopérative laitière de Moûtiers offers tours of Beaufort cheese production and the aging cellars. Tours are free, take place Monday to Friday and on Saturdays during the tourist season, and are available by advance reservation only. As tour arrangements and dates may change, check booking options and the current schedule in advance.
A Historic Tradition
Pain de Mai is also part of Moûtiers’ history: this charitable tradition was established in 1150 by Archbishop Pierre II of Tarentaise and continued for more than 600 years. It offers another historical connection alongside the town’s buildings and collections.
Discover more destinations: Lépin-Le-Lac, Sainte-Hélène-Du-Lac, Feissons-Sur-Salins, Aiguebelette-Le-Lac, Demi-Quartier, Cohennoz, Montgellafrey, Saint-Paul.
For the regional travel overview: Savoie.
