|
IN BRIEF
|
The Petit Train de la Mûre offers visitors a delightful opportunity to explore the rich and fascinating history of the Matheysine. This tourist train, which winds through enchanting landscapes and majestic gorges, not only transports travelers back in time but also into an era where the mining industry and rail transport shaped this region. On board, each journey becomes a living narrative of the challenges faced by the locals and the technical innovations that enabled them to overcome the obstacles of the mountains.
À lire the United States issues a travel warning for Pakistan following a drone attack in India
An exceptional railway heritage #
Inaugurated in 1888, the Petit Train de la Mûre is a true emblem of the railway heritage of Isère. Its 30-kilometer line connects the town of La Mûre, perched on the Matheysin plateau, to the valley of Drac. This railway not only served to transport the region’s mineral resources, but has also been a vector for economic development and social ties between communities that were once isolated. Through this journey, passengers discover the technical challenges and daring feats of the engineers of the time, who managed to build a line through rugged terrain, between viaducts and tunnels.
A journey into the heart of mining history #
The valley of La Mûre has long been dominated by mining activities. At the end of the 19th century, while the railway was still under construction, this region, primarily known for its agriculture, faced accessibility challenges. The transportation of anthracite, a vital energy source, was facilitated by the opening of this railway line, which reached its peak in the 1920s and 1930s. The trains transported both passengers and goods, marking the local economic boom during a time when coal was the pillar of the industry.
A majestic journey #
On board the Petit Train de la Mûre, travelers can admire a spectacular natural setting, peaking at an altitude of 900 meters. The alpine landscapes unfold before their eyes, revealing breathtaking panoramas of the gorges of Drac and the surrounding valleys. One of the major attractions is the passage through the gorges, a striking spectacle often described as a true open book on the geological history of the region. Visitors are immersed in wild beauty while listening to captivating tales of a bygone era.
A resilience like no other #
Despite the competition from automobiles and the decline of the mining industry, the memory of the Petit Train de la Mûre has never been forgotten. After a period of closure in 1970, efforts were made to revive this gem. In 1997, the train began operating as a tourist attraction, thus renewing interest in this iconic line. The renovation of the cars and the rehabilitation of certain sections of the track have allowed current generations to relive this unique experience.
À lire When SNCF faces the laughter of its competitors: a look at rivals and their destinations
A living testimony of heritage #
The Petit Train de la Mûre is not just an attraction, it is a living testimony of technical genius and community spirit. Guided tours enable passengers to discover not only the history of this railway line but also the transformation of the region over the decades. The imposing industrial past of Matheysine, combined with its new energy initiatives like the solar power plant and large dams, testifies to the continuous innovation that characterizes this valley.
An unforgettable experience #
The journey on the Petit Train de la Mûre is a total immersion in the culture and history of the region. Whether one is passionate about history, a nature lover, or interested in local culture, each passenger finds a personal resonance in this journey. The picturesque landscapes, tales of a glorious past, and the unique atmosphere of this train make each outing a memorable moment. This railway heritage continues to fascinate and attract the curious, while building bridges between the past and the future.
