The Nº1 Highest Fortress in the World: Struggling Hike to Mont Chaberton

The Journey to the Summit

Overview of the Hike:
Starting from Montgenèvre, you’ll embark on a 5-hour trip hike with a total ascent of 1,340 meters. The trail, spanning 15 kilometers, leads to the summit at 3,131 meters, following a historic military road. This well-preserved path, built in the 1800s, gradually climbs and offers spectacular views, making Mont Chaberton one of the easier 3,000-meter peaks in the Alps for experienced hikers.

The Terrain:
The hike is divided into three main parts:

• Part 1: The first section leads through the Rio Secco Valley, a scenic and gradual ascent up to the Plateau des Baïsses. It’s a relatively gentle climb with rolling terrain and stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
• Part 2: As you approach the Col du Chaberton, the trail becomes steeper and rockier. The ascent is aided by a series of switchbacks, remnants of the military road. This part requires some endurance, but the climb is made easier by the well-maintained path. Be prepared for breathtaking scenery as the trail rises above the tree line.
• Part 3: The final stretch to the summit is the steepest, with loose gravel and rock underfoot. The path narrows and becomes more exposed, so take care with your footing. Despite the challenging incline, the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the Alps and the remnants of the historic Chaberton Fortress.

Though the hike is challenging, the mix of historical significance and natural beauty makes the journey to Mont Chaberton a uniquely rewarding experience.

Reaching the Fort

Historical Significance:
The summit of Mont Chaberton is not just about the hike; it’s a journey through history. At 3,131 meters, the Fort du Mont Chaberton was built by Italy in the late 1800s and was once the highest fort in the world. It was intended as a strategic military stronghold but played a crucial role in both World Wars. Known as “The Battleship of the Clouds,” the fort was heavily bombarded during WWII by the French, who later annexed the territory in 1947. Walking through the remains of this fortress, you’ll see remnants of artillery platforms and crumbling barracks, transporting you back to a time when this mountain was a military outpost.

What to Expect:
The fort is partially in ruins, with some of its rooms collapsed or filled with snow and ice, even during the summer months. You’ll want to explore the old artillery positions, the panoramic viewpoints, and the desolate, long eerie corridors that give the fort its haunted feel. However, be careful—some areas are unstable, and it’s best to avoid wandering too deep into the ruins without caution. The snow and ice add a layer of difficulty, making parts of the fort inaccessible, but the experience of standing atop this historic site with sweeping views of the French and Italian Alps is truly one of a kind.

Tips for Your Own Adventure

Preparation:
Tackling Mont Chaberton requires physical endurance and a solid understanding of the challenges posed by high altitude. With an ascent of over 1,300 meters, you’ll need to be in good physical shape and ready for the effects of low oxygen. It’s essential to stay well-hydrated and take short breaks to avoid altitude sickness. Consider bringing trekking poles to help with the steep and rocky sections of the hike. Additionally, you’ll need to be comfortable with exposure, as the final stretch is steep and can be tough with the low oxygen.

What to Bring:
For this hike, packing properly is crucial for safety and comfort. Start with a sturdy pair of hiking boots that provide good ankle support, as the rocky sections can be tough on your feet. Bring at least 4-5 liters of water, since there are no reliable water sources after the initial part of the trail. Wear layers of clothing to prepare for varying weather conditions, including a waterproof jacket, as weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Don’t forget sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, and a hat, as the higher altitude means increased UV exposure.

If you plan to camp near the summit, you’ll need a lightweight tent, but keep in mind that the rocky ground at the top makes it difficult to secure a tent with pegs. Bring extra warmth, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially if you’re staying overnight (it was 3ºC for us during the night).

Weather Considerations:
It’s vital to plan your hike during stable weather conditions. Check the forecast and aim for clear, high-pressure days to avoid the risk of thunderstorms or snow. Late summer is generally the best time to attempt this hike, as snow and ice can still linger in the early season, making the final ascent treacherous. Avoid early July, when patches of snow can make the steep climb more dangerous.

Personal advice:
During our journey, we decided to camp on the summit. We starteed the hike at around 3pm, and arrived about 4h30 later (with multiple breaks). We walked accross many people going down. No one was at the summit when we arrived at 7:30pm. We camped there for the night, and only crossed people as we were going down again in the morning. If you do like us, you’re likely to have the luxury of being alone. If you decide to camp lower then the summit, you might encounter some others camper, if that’s what you’re looking for. Be ready to be awaken by an amazing view in the morning.

Places you could camp:
1. The summit and the Fort (3131m): an inclined platform of 1° (almost horizontal) allowing for almost unlimited space; however, be careful of the wind as it is impossible to secure the tent with pegs due to the lack of ground at 3131m.

2. The Pass and the first batteries (2690-2750m): small flat areas, especially near some old batteries; however, be cautious of small debris such as barbed wire still present around / the pass is perfect as it is flat, the only downside is the morning fog that may appear.

3. Just below the summit (around 3000m): if you stay on the main path leading to the summit, just before the fort’s batteries, there are small well flat areas available for 1 or 2 tents; still, be careful as you are close to the void on the Italian side (cliffs), flashlight required.

Watch my video of Mont Chaberton

Visiting Briançon

After the challenging hike to Mont Chaberton, we took some time to explore Briançon, the highest city in France and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its Vauban fortifications, this charming alpine town offers a relaxing contrast to the rugged mountain terrain. The historic old town is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can grab a meal at one of the many cozy restaurants. It’s a great place to unwind after your adventure and enjoy the unique blend of history and mountain culture that the region has to offer​. You can also see the Mont Chaberton from the city!

Overall…

Mont Chaberton offers an extraordinary blend of history, challenge, and natural beauty. From the steep, rewarding ascent to the historic fortress at the summit, this hike is a must for anyone seeking adventure in the Alps. With proper preparation, you can experience the same breathtaking views and historical intrigue that make this journey so special. Whether you’re here for the hike or to uncover remnants of wartime history, Mont Chaberton won’t disappoint. And after your trek, the charming city of Briançon is the perfect place to relax and reflect on your achievement​.

Thanks to Yohan Hochedez for his important contribution to this article!

He also planned everything and did a fantastic job at organising the hike.
Download the information document made by Yohan: