Urban exploration (urbex) attracts enthusiasts in search of abandoned places rich in history. Haute-Savoie , located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, offers many fascinating sites for urbex enthusiasts. This article presents a selection of the five best urbex sites in Haute-Savoie, each offering a unique and captivating experience.
1: The Plateau d'Assy Sanatorium
History and Importance Built in the 1930s, the Plateau d'Assy Sanatorium welcomed thousands of tuberculosis patients. Abandoned in the 1990s, it is today an emblematic place for urbex in Haute-Savoie.
Site Features
- Architecture: Hospital buildings, large treatment rooms and dormitories.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are in ruins, but others remain accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted and requires discretion and precaution.
2: The Cluses Carbon Factory
An Industrial Vestige The Cluses carbon factory is an industrial site abandoned since the 1970s. This place offers a unique setting with its vast workshops and deserted machines, ideal for urban explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Production workshops, warehouses and old machines.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some structures are still accessible.
- Access: Access is restricted, requiring caution and discretion.
3: Faucigny Castle
An Abandoned Historic Site The Château de Faucigny , dating from the 12th century, is a magnificent abandoned building offering a mysterious and captivating atmosphere. It is an ideal site for urbex enthusiasts.
Site Features
- Architecture: Towers, ramparts and vast medieval halls.
- State of Disrepair: Some parts are well preserved, others in ruins.
- Access: Access is relatively easy, but caution is required.
4: Marignier Station
A Railway Vestige The Marignier station , closed for several decades, is an abandoned railway site offering a fascinating setting for urbex with its deserted platforms and ruined buildings.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Station buildings, platforms and old railway tracks.
- State of Disrepair: Largely in ruins, some structures are still accessible.
- Access: Access is free, but it is important to remain cautious.
5: The Cran-Gevrier Paper Mills
A former paper manufacturing plant, this industrial site ceased operations in the 2000s. The vast buildings, now abandoned, are a favorite playground for urban explorers in search of devastated industrial settings.
Conclusion
Haute-Savoie is a department rich in history and fascinating abandoned sites for urbex enthusiasts. From the Plateau d'Assy Sanatorium to the Cluses carbon factory, including the Château de Faucigny and the Marignier train station, each place offers a unique adventure. By respecting the safety rules and the properties, you can experience memorable explorations and discover the hidden treasures of this department. Happy exploring!
