Restefond, Mountain summit in Jausiers, France
Restefond is a mountain summit in Jausiers reaching 2,794 meters (9,167 feet) where you can see across the surrounding Alpine ranges. The peak draws hikers and mountaineers who want to experience the high-altitude landscape and test themselves on challenging terrain.
Military engineers built the Ouvrage Restefond fortification at 2,733 meters (8,967 feet) as part of extending the Maginot Line to defend France's borders. This structure became part of an Alpine defense network built during the early 20th century.
The Tour de France professional cycling race incorporates this mountain pass into challenging stages, testing athletes at extreme elevations.
Access requires proper mountain gear and close weather monitoring since conditions change rapidly at this altitude. Bring sturdy boots, warm layers, and plenty of water to handle the exposed terrain and changing elements.
The fortification contains three observation blocks and one artillery block, making it the highest structure within its Alpine defensive network. This arrangement reflects an unusual engineering solution for high-altitude military construction.
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