Puy Saint
Vincent
Pelvoux-Vallouise
From Ice to Light…
The museographic centre in Les Claux, Pelvoux, located above the electricity plant, which has been in service since 1932, explains the amazing story of hydroelectricity in the Pays des Écrins; From Ice to Light, but also how it germinated in the mind of a visionary to its development across the region.
Indeed, the six parts that make up the facility, each provide a range of information concerning an aspect of this 20th century industrial saga.
The growth and industrialisation of L’Argentière-La-Bessée, driven by ‘la houille blanche’ (‘white coal’ or hydroelectric power), and Gilbert Planche, the spirit, and man behind all this are explained here. You will to follow the research and works that led to the construction of Les Claux hydroelectric plant.
Then, two view points and a wonderful model will help to understand how taming the water from the glaciers brings us light thanks to three tireless turbines.
You’ll also learn how the Durance planning policy highlighted the importance of the Pays des Écrins with its huge water reservoir, stocked up there in the glaciers.
Finally, you will get an idea of how it all operates on a daily basis, thanks to interactive workshops and a film that will take you through a century of human, industrial and technical adventures.
Download the document to have all the practical information (days, times, access, etc.) and for further details there is someone on site who will be delighted to give you all the information you need.
Prices:
Groups: €3 per person (from 15 people) by reservation only
In July and August, the museum will be open to visitors daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following prices:
- adults: 5 euros
- children under 16: 2 euros
- groups: 3 euros per person
- Adult mine package (combined with a visit to the silver mine): 2.50 euros
Contact:
Tel: + 33 (0)4 92 51 73 86
Free access during opening hours.
An audio guide is also available at the museum reception to learn all the secrets of the ‘From Ice to Light’ tour, across the Pays des Écrins.
Tourism and disability
Everyone can enjoy the visit as, since the autumn 2014, the centre has the ‘Tourism and Disability’ label for physical, auditive, visual and mental disabilities.
Enjoy your visit!
