The Alps are the mountains of cycling par excellence. There is no cycling fan who does not know them and it is impossible not to remember the greatest achievements in the history of the sport when you hear the names of their passes.
In this article, we propose three locations so that you can enjoy some of the most important passes of the French Alps on your bike.
Annecy
Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps", is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Annecy, surrounded by mountains. Its natural setting makes it an ideal destination for cyclists of all levels, with routes ranging from gentle rides around the lake to challenging climbs such as the Col de la Forclaz and the Mont Semnoz. Annecy has been part of the Tour de France several times, noted for its ability to host both time trial stages and mountain finishes. Its cycling infrastructure is excellent, with well-maintained bike paths, and the city is a popular training center for professional and amateur cyclists.
Route 1: Annecy Lake Circuit - Col de la Forclaz - Col de la Croix Fry
This route begins by skirting the beautiful Lake Annecy in a southerly direction, enjoying panoramic views of the water and surrounding mountains. The first major climb is the Col de la Forclaz (1,157 m): This pass has an average gradient of 7.5% over a 10 km ascent from Talloires and is known for its breathtaking views of Lake Annecy from the top.
After descending towards Vallée de Thônes the route continues towards the Col de la Croix Fry (1,477 m): It has an average gradient of 6.7% along 12 km from Thônes. A demanding pass that has been part of the Tour de France route several times.
Once crowned, we go down the winding descent to Magnoid, where we return to Annecy on very nice and quiet roads.
- Distance: 85 km.
Route 2: Tour of Annecy - Col du Marais - Mont Semnoz
Starting from Annecy, the route heads northeast in the direction of Thônes where the ascent to the Col du Marais (833 m): This is a gentler pass, with an average gradient of 4.5% over 9 km. It is perfect as a warm-up before tackling the climb to the Col du Marais. Mont Semnoz (1,699 m), with an average gradient of 8.5% in 11 km from Quintal. This pass was the finish of a stage in 2013, where Nairo Quintana made himself known to the world in his first major victory.
The impressive descent from Semnoz goes all the way to Annecy, offering spectacular views of the lake.
- Distance: 90 km.
Where to have coffee in Annecy?
Cafe Bunna - A cozy specialty cafe in the heart of Annecy, perfect for good coffee and homemade pastries.
Chez Frantz - A small traditional cafe near the lake, with a relaxing terrace to enjoy a coffee or tea.
Where to eat in Annecy?
Le Chalet Restaurant - A rustic restaurant specializing in Savoyard cuisine, with typical dishes such as fondue and raclette.
Auberge de Savoie - Located in the old town of Annecy, this restaurant offers local dishes with a charming view of the canal.
Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Bourg-Saint-Maurice is an alpine town located in the Tarentaise valley, famous for its proximity to some of the most iconic passes of the French Alps, such as the Col de l'Iseran and the Cormet de Roselend. Its strategic position at the crossroads of several alpine valleys makes it a perfect starting point for routes that challenge any cycling enthusiast. Bourg-Saint-Maurice has been frequently chosen as a passing stage in the Tour de France due to the toughness of its passes and the scenic beauty it offers, making cyclists and fans fall in love with its scenery and challenge.
Route 1: Cormet de Roselend - Col du Pré
The route starts in Bourg-Saint-Maurice and quickly climbs towards the Col du Pré. Cormet de Roselend (1,968 m), a 19.3 km pass with an average gradient of 6.1% famous for its alpine scenery and frequent appearance in the Tour de France. After descending to the spectacular Lac de Roselend we start the ascent to the Col du Pré (1,748 m) with its 7.7% gradient over 12.6 km. Once we reach the top, we have a long and fast descent to Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
- Distance: 85 km.
Route 2: Col du Petit Saint-Bernard - Col de l'Iseran
An epic route with two of the most mythical passes of the tour. We start the route with the iconic Col du Petit Saint-Bernard (2,188 m), a mythical 26 km climb at 4.5% that reaches the Italian border. This pass has been a part of the Tour de France several times, including 1949, when Fausto Coppi sealed his Giro - Tour double. After the summit, we descend towards Val d'Isere, where we climb the dreaded Col de l'Iseran (20km at 7%), where Pogacar pronounced that famous "I'm gone, i'm dead" in 2023. Once crowned, we descend the same slope to Val d'Isere to continue to Bourg Saint Maurice.
Where to have coffee in Bourg Saint Maurice?
Le Refuge Altitude Café - A cozy and perfect place to enjoy a coffee or a hot chocolate after a hike or a bike ride. It is known for its warm atmosphere and friendly service.
Le Pause - Located near the train station, this cafe is a classic place for a quick drink or breakfast. Ideal for a break before continuing your trip.
Where to eat in Bourg Saint Maurice?
La Ruelle - This restaurant offers French cuisine with a modern twist. It is known for its dishes made with local products and its cozy atmosphere.
Le Chalupot - A charming place to enjoy Savoyard specialties. It offers a selection of traditional dishes such as fondue and raclette, perfect for a meal after a day of outdoor activities.
Briançon
Briançon the highest town in France, is a legendary cycling destination due to its proximity to some of the most famous passes of the Tour de France, including the Col du Galibier, the Col d'Izoard and the Col du Lautaret. The town has a rich cycling history, serving as the setting for memorable Tour stages, including epic battles on the surrounding alpine cols. Its location in the Hautes-Alpes and its authentic alpine atmosphere attract cyclists from around the world looking to tackle the same routes that cycling champions have challenged for decades.
Route 1: Circuit Col du Galibier - Col du Lautaret
Starting from Briançon, the route begins with a progressive climb towards the Col du Galibier. Col du Lautaret (2,058 m): Long and sinewy climb with an average gradient of 4% over 27 km. It is gentler, but it is an excellent warm-up point for what is to come, the col du Lautaret. Col du Galibier (2,642 m): The slope from Lautaret has 8.5 km with an average gradient of 6.9%, but the last 3 km are extremely challenging, with slopes of up to 10% and always above 2000m altitude. Galibier has been the scene of the greatest feats in Tour history, Andy Shleck's victory, Contador's attack on Rasmussen, the descent of Pogacar... The descent goes back the same way up to Le Monêtier-les-Bains returning to Briançon.
- Distance: 73 km.
Route 2: Circuit Col d'Izoard - Guillestre - Château-Queyras
From Briançon, we start by ascending the mythical Col d'Izoard (2,360 m): 14km at 7% with very hard ramps in its last part. The climb has its most spectacular part in the famous section of Casse Déserte an area almost lunar that has seen many iconic Tour duels, such as that of the Fausto Coppi and Louison Bobet in the 1950s. The descent leads to Guillestre and then the route climbs gently up the valley until Château-Queyras before returning to Briançon through the valley of Guil.
- Distance: 90 km.
Where to have coffee in Briançon?
Café de la Vigne - A cozy place where you can enjoy a good coffee or tea, accompanied by delicious pastries. It is a popular place among locals and tourists for its relaxed atmosphere.
Le Gavroche Café - Specialty coffee shop Ideal for a quick break or to relax after exploring the city.
Where to eat in Briançon?
Le Passé Simple - A restaurant offering traditional French cuisine with a contemporary touch. It is a place highly valued for its culinary quality and its cozy atmosphere.
La Caponnière - This restaurant is known for its rustic atmosphere and authentic Savoyard food. It is an excellent choice for tasting typical dishes of the region in a warm and cozy atmosphere.
We hope this article will help you discover new mountain passes to venture out on your bike and enjoy the wonderful sport of cycling. See you on the roads!
