Sainte-Hélène-sur-Isère is a commune of Savoie in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, 10 km south-west of Albertville.
The territory of the locality borders the left bank of the course of the Isère, and then stretches from nearly 300 m to 2294 m altitude, within the Grand Arc massif.
The town is therefore divided into two parts: the village itself and the banks of the Isère dotted with lakes, and pastures and wooded areas accessible by roads.
Former medieval stronghold headquarters of a barony with a fortified castle, Sainte-Hélène-sur-Isère is now a small agricultural and commercial city that highlights its heritage and its remarkable environment conducive to sports and recreation "nature". Close to prestigious winter sports resorts, the town which now has nearly 1200 inhabitants deserves a step.
The feudal castle, first strong house in the thirteenth century and real castle redesigned in the seventeenth, monitors the valley and dominates the heart of the village of which it is the jewel.
Protected as historical monuments since 1940, it belongs first to the Comte de Savoie and then to his brother, Archbishop of Canterbury. Several lords succeed one another over the centuries, and it is the property of the powerful family of The House, whose last representative becomes baron of St. Helena before selling the building in the early seventeenth century.
So in poor condition due to frequent conflicts between the kingdom of France and Duchy of Savoy, the castle is restored and remodeled by the Locatel who then separate. Its towers are leveled at the Revolution before the building is redeemed. It is still today a private property. Not open to the visit, its silhouette is impressive however and we note its round towers (one of which serves as a dungeon) and main building forming a quadrangular enclosure.
A walkway and mullioned windows can be seen from outside. Until the nineteenth century, the castle housed a chapel serving as a parish church. There were also winter gardens.
In the village still, to see, an old mill which is the subject of a beautiful restoration undertaken by volunteers.
In terms of sports and leisure "nature", the locality has a lake along the Isère dedicated to water skiing (beginners or experienced practitioners), jet skiing, but also paddle rides or pedalo. What combine nautical pleasures and unparalleled views of neighboring peaks. In addition to idleness, of course. Bathing is however prohibited. All information at +33 4 79 38 40 38.
It is also possible to book an outdoor court for a pleasant game of tennis by contacting +33 6 72 72 74 26.
In terms of hiking, three specific routes have been drawn and marked on the town itself, to discover from the village the mountain pastures that spread on the massif, the wooded parcels to the preserved ecosystem. A route is dedicated to the small heritage. Larger loops are also possible to discover the surrounding communities. Maps and information on +33 4 79 32 04 22.
During a hike, a stage can be scheduled at the chalet refuge La Thuile, on the eponymous meadow. Information on +33 6 12 73 21 31.
As for the fishermen who want to take advantage of the Isère or bodies of water, learn about the regulations from the local association at +33 6 81 74 64 69.
The 3rd Sunday of June, festival of the alp, with animations "nature" and traditional.
The 3rd Saturday of August, Saint Helena Festival with fun and musical entertainment.
1st Saturday of December, Festival of Lights.