Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, commune in Haute-Savoie, France
Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval is a mountain village in the French Alps located in Haute-Savoie at about 3300 feet (1000 m) elevation. The settlement spreads across meadows and forests with traditional stone buildings scattered throughout rather than concentrated in a single center.
The village originated as a settlement of craftspeople specialized in making horseshoes, which gave it its distinctive name. Over time it transformed into a mountain community focused on forestry and later developed ties to alpine tourism.
The village name references the horseshoes that were central to local craftsmanship traditions for centuries. This heritage remains visible in how residents value traditional skills and how the community preserves its artisan identity.
The village is accessible by road from the valley below, though winter conditions can bring snow that affects travel. Bring sturdy hiking boots and layered clothing as mountain weather changes quickly and can be unpredictable.
The village name directly references horseshoes, pointing to an unusual historical focus on that specific craft rather than typical alpine activities. This specialized artisan heritage sets it apart from other mountain settlements that typically developed around mining or agriculture.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
