This weekend promises to be rich in emotions and memories! The municipalities of Veynes, Briançon, and Manosque are preparing to celebrate with great fanfare the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the train in the Hautes-Alpes. The commissioning of the historic steam locomotive 140C27, carefully maintained by the GADEFT association, promises unforgettable journeys between these emblematic cities. It’s the perfect occasion to rediscover the railway history of this mountainous region while enjoying a warm and festive atmosphere.
The Spectacular Journey of the Steam Locomotive
The festivities will begin this Friday, April 25, when the steam locomotive departs from Manosque. The journey to Veynes will take approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, a wonderful way to turn back time aboard this historical monument. The children from the Veynes schools will be present to warmly welcome the train on the forecourt of the station, get ready for a friendly and festive atmosphere!
The Highlighted Journeys of the Weekend
With three extraordinary journeys planned over these three days, the weekend is set to be filled with exploration and nostalgia. The first departure will be at 12:18 PM from Manosque to Veynes. The next day, the train will start its journey from Veynes at 7:56 AM towards Briançon, with an expected arrival time of 2:35 PM. Finally, to conclude these celebrations, the last journey will take place on Sunday with a departure from Briançon at 9:52 AM for an arrival at Veynes-Dévoluy at 2 PM. Let yourself be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Alps while discovering the railway heritage of this beautiful region.
The Key Figures of This Commemorative Event
Although the Minister of Transport, Philippe Tabarot, has decided not to participate in the festivities, regional representatives will be present. The Vice President in charge of transport for the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, Jean-Pierre Serrus, along with other personalities from the SNCF, will board this mythical machine, underscoring the importance of this event at the local level.
A Link Between History and Future
With the 2020 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in sight, the importance of renovating and improving railway infrastructures is more pressing than ever. The region is diligently working to connect Marseille to Briançon in 3 hours and 30 minutes while modernizing the railway network of the Veynes Star. This celebration of 150 years of railways represents not only a tribute to the past but also a look towards the future.
