Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Bourg-Saint-Maurice
source
Name	Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Arrondissement	Albertville
Canton	Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Insee	73054
Postal code	73700
Mayor	Guillaume Desrues
Term	2020–2026
Elevation m	744
Area km2	179.07
Population	7275
Population date	2021

Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a commune in the Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. Situated in the Tarentaise Valley along the Isère river, it serves as a major gateway to the renowned Les Arcs ski area and the Vanoise National Park. The town combines its role as a vibrant year-round mountain resort with a rich historical heritage dating back to the Roman Empire.

Geography

Bourg-Saint-Maurice is located in the upper Tarentaise Valley, approximately 45 kilometers east of Albertville and 30 kilometers from the border with Italy. The commune's territory is dominated by the Alps, with the Isère river flowing through its center. It lies at the confluence of several valleys, including the Vallon de la Leisse and the Vallon de l'Arc, providing access to high-altitude areas like the Vanoise National Park. The town itself sits at an altitude of 744 meters, while its jurisdiction extends to peaks over 3,000 meters, such as the Aiguille des Glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif. This dramatic topography creates a significant climatic gradient, with a typical alpine climate featuring cold, snowy winters and mild summers.

History

The area has been inhabited since antiquity, with evidence of a settlement known as *Bergintrum* along the Roman road connecting Mediolanum (modern Milan) with Vienna. During the Middle Ages, it was part of the County of Savoy and grew around a priory dedicated to Saint Maurice. The town, then called *Bourg-Saint-Maurice-les-Arcs*, was strategically important for controlling the Little St Bernard Pass. It witnessed significant events during the French Revolution and the subsequent Napoleonic campaigns. In the 20th century, the construction of the French National Railway and the development of winter sports, notably with the creation of Les Arcs by architect Charlotte Perriand, transformed its economy and demography. The town also played a role in World War II, with local resistance activity in the French Alps.

Economy

The economy is overwhelmingly centered on tourism, primarily alpine skiing linked to the integrated resort of Les Arcs, which is part of the vast Paradiski area with La Plagne. Summer activities like hiking, mountain biking, and via ferrata have grown significantly, supported by the Compagnie des Alpes and local businesses. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming for the production of Beaufort cheese, remains a traditional sector, with many farms in the surrounding hamlets. The town also functions as a commercial and administrative hub for the upper Tarentaise, hosting institutions like the Communauté de communes de Haute Tarentaise and various public services. A small industrial zone exists, focusing on construction and woodworking related to the tourist infrastructure.

Culture and sights

The town preserves several historical monuments, including the Church of Saint Maurice, with origins in the 11th century and a notable Baroque altarpiece. The annual Fête du Beaufort celebrates the local cheese with markets and demonstrations. Cultural institutions include the Maison de la Vanoise, an information center for the national park, and the Galerie de l'Arc, showcasing contemporary art. The area is steeped in traditions of the Savoie region, with folk groups like Les Montagnards performing during events. Architectural heritage includes typical alpine chalets and the modern design of the Arc 1600 resort, a landmark of 1960s ski station architecture. The town also hosts stages of the Tour de France and the La Course by Le Tour de France when the race climbs the nearby Cormet de Roselend.

Transport

Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a major transport node for the Tarentaise. It is served by the Bourg-Saint-Maurice station on the SNCF network, a terminus for high-speed TGV trains from Paris and Lyon and regional TER services from Chambéry. The station is uniquely connected to Les Arcs by the Funiculaire Arc-en-Ciel, a dedicated funicular railway. Road access is via the RN90 national road, which is part of the route to the Mont Blanc Tunnel and Italy, and the A430 motorway linking to Albertville and the A43. Local bus services, operated by Transports de l'Agglomération de Bourg-Saint-Maurice Les Arcs, connect the town center with the various sectors of Les Arcs and neighboring villages like Séez. The nearest international airports are Chambéry Airport and Geneva Airport.

Category:Communes of Savoie Category:Alpine resorts in France Category:Subprefectures in France