Glières Plateau, Historic site and mountain pasture near La Balme-de-Thuy, France
Glières Plateau is a limestone formation at about 1,440 meters elevation featuring open mountain meadows interspersed with alpine forest. The terrain includes multiple hiking routes across varied landscape with gentle slopes and forested sections.
This location served as a gathering point for French Resistance fighters in 1944 who awaited supply drops from Allied aircraft. A German military assault occurred here in March, resulting in significant combat on the plateau.
The monument at the center marks this location as a place of remembrance for those who fought against occupation. Local communities continue to recognize this site as a meaningful historical landmark in their region.
Access to the plateau is possible through several marked paths, though the ascent requires moderate to strenuous physical effort depending on your chosen route. Weather conditions change quickly at this elevation, so appropriate gear and an early start are advisable.
The plateau is home to diverse alpine plants and animals while simultaneously serving as traditional grazing ground for local dairy herds. This dual use as both a protected natural area and working farmland creates a rarely seen ecological balance.
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