Mûres is a small linear village situated on a terrace of land below the hill of La Luche. The village borders the Chéran River, which rises in the Massif des Bauges. Those planning a stay in Mûres may wish to rent a holiday apartment.
Landscape
Near Mûres, the Chéran Valley is deeply cut into the molasse of the foothills of the Massif des Bauges. The eastern half of Mûres is characterised by gently rolling terrain. The hills reach elevations of 570 to 590 metres, with a maximum elevation of 593 metres. Mûres is also part of the Parc Naturel Régional des Bauges.
History and Buildings
The Maison forte de Pierre Charve was part of a defensive network consisting of seven fortified structures belonging to the Châtellenie of Alby-sur-Chéran. The surviving tower of the Château de Pierre Charve stands on a molasse-like rocky outcrop above the Chéran and still comprises four levels. The Château de Pierre Charve is now a ruin; the roof of the former fortified house was later destroyed in an accident.
Church and Local History
The parish of Mûres was mentioned in the pastoral visitations of 1411. In 1685, a high altar with an architectural altarpiece was installed in the choir of Saint-Donat Church.
The present Saint-Donat Church was rebuilt between 1753 and 1754 after the previous church and bell tower were demolished in 1748. Between 1866 and 1868, it was enlarged with side chapels and fitted with a bell tower.
Further Traces
The Les Balmettes Cross in Mûres features an unusual wrought-iron cross element from the 18th century. In 1864, a fruitière, a traditional cheese dairy, was founded in La Grangerie in Mûres.
Path along the Chéran
The Chemin du Grand Creux leads on foot to the ruins of the Maison forte de Pierre Charve near the banks of the Chéran.
Other places: Ambilly, Arâches-La-Frasse, Montagny-Les-Lanches, Le Grand-Bornand, Le Praz De Lys, Morillon, Cuvat, Chavanod
