The Anselmes

A gateway to Le Corbier and a link between the hamlets of Fontcouverte and Les Anselmes, Les Anselmes reveal a region where pastoral life and mountain traditions are still very much alive. Further up the valley, the hamlet of Le Villard continues this journey of discovery with its authentic charm and its chapel.

A passage between the hamlets

The Anselmes area occupies a strategic position at the heart of the Fontcouverte-la-Toussuire region. It serves as a natural gateway to the neighbouring commune of Villarembert – Le Corbier, whilst also linking the commune’s various hamlets.

Here, the mountains reveal themselves in a different light, as you follow the roads and paths that link the various communities. It is an area where we take the time to observe a landscape shaped by its inhabitants and the activities that still bring it to life today.

A living terroir to the rhythm of the mountain pastures

In Les Anselmes, agriculture and pastoralism still play an important role. Several farmers and farms here carry on local expertise and help to keep mountain traditions alive.

Among them, the Bergerie de l’Étoile and the Chèvrerie de Savoué bear witness to this pastoral way of life, which is deeply rooted in the local area. These farms serve as a reminder that the mountains are not merely a backdrop: they are also a place of work, of passing on traditions and of expertise.

Everything you need to know about the sheepfold

Le Villard a hamlet steeped in history

Just upstream from Les Anselmes, in the immediate vicinity, lies the hamlet of Le Villard. With its authentic character, it offers a charming retreat, far from the hustle and bustle.

The hamlet is home to a chapel, a true testament to local history and the memories of its inhabitants. It serves as a reminder of the importance of religious heritage in these mountain villages and the role that places of worship once played in the lives of the communities.

The Villard Chapel a testament to the Baroque era

Overlooking the hamlet of Le Villard, this 18th-century chapel is a fine example of Baroque architecture, blending perfectly into the Fontcouvertin landscape.

Its history dates back to 1622, when the first chapel, dedicated to the Visitation, was built. Having fallen into ruin, it was replaced by a new building, work on which began in 1713 and which hosted its first Mass in 1715. Weakened by significant structural problems, the chapel was finally rebuilt from scratch in 1755 on communal land situated above the megalithic circle.

Still visible today, it notably features white wooden panelling adorned with medallion paintings, the artist of which remains unknown. Now in a poor state of repair, this remarkable chapel would benefit from restoration to preserve this valuable testament to the local heritage.

Where nature, traditions and heritage meet

From Anselmes to Villard, this area invites you to discover another side to Fontcouverte-la-Toussuire: that of a mountain region where people still live, where farming goes hand in hand with ancient hamlets, and where traditions continue to breathe life into the area.