La Vigie means the lookout or guard. This is an observation tower. The tower was built a little higher. That way they had a good view of the city. In shipping the term often used is "crow's nest".

Because of its unique elevated position with fantastic views of the Maurienne valley and the fact that the chalet is the first house that you see through the trees when you drive up from Modane to Valfréjus, the chalet wears it name with dignity.