Moûtiers

Moûtiers is a commune in the Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France. It is located in the Tarentaise Valley, at the confluence of the Isère River and the Doron River. The town is a historical administrative and religious center and a gateway to several popular ski resorts.

Historically, Moûtiers was the capital of the Centrons, a Gallic tribe. Later, it became an important Roman settlement known as Darantasia. In the Middle Ages, it served as the seat of the bishops of Moûtiers-Tarentaise, who held significant temporal power in the region. The town's strategic location made it a crucial point for trade and travel through the Alps.

The economy of Moûtiers is closely linked to tourism, particularly winter sports. It serves as a transportation hub for visitors heading to resorts such as Courchevel, Méribel, and Les Trois Vallées. The town itself offers amenities for tourists, including shops, restaurants, and accommodation.

Notable landmarks in Moûtiers include the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, a Romanesque cathedral with Gothic additions, and the Maison des Anciens Evêques, a historical building that once housed the bishops. The surrounding alpine scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing are major attractions. Moûtiers is accessible by road and rail, with a train station connecting it to larger cities like Lyon and Chambéry.