Lifestyle

Top 5 mountain passes by bike

June 2024




This summer, come and challenge the summits by climbing the majestic mountain passes! Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking for a new challenge, or an amateur keen to discover breathtaking scenery, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the French Alps!

 

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The Col de la Madeleine 

 

The Col de la Madeleine is located in Savoie at an altitude of 1993m and is one of the most beautiful mountain passes in France.

The pass links the Tarentaise and Maurienne valleys, and their two ski resorts, Saint François Longchamp and Valmorel, known as the Grand Domaine.

Characterized by its steep ascent over more than 19 km and its many bends in the heart of the mountain, this pass has become a legend in the history of the Tour de France.

With a vertical drop of over 1500m, it is one of the most difficult climbs. However, the cyclists who climb it are not just professionals; amateurs too dream of achieving this feat.

The Col de la Madeleine is a must-see tourist site, unspoilt and rich in outdoor sports opportunities. It’s also the starting point for a number of hikes to discover the surrounding villages.

Whether you’re a cyclist or a biker, you’ll love the route up to the pass, with its breathtaking panoramas of Mont-Blanc and the Aiguilles d’Arves.

Discover our apartment rentals in Valmorel, nestled in the majestic French Alps!

 

 

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The Col de la Colombière

 

At an altitude of 1613m, the famous Col de la Colombière links the Arve valley to the Aravis massif, which slopes down to Annecy.

Almost 12km long, with a vertical drop of 705m, the Col is a cycling classic, used many times by the Tour de France.

You’ll pass through Le Grand-Bornand, then Le Grand-Bornand Chinaillon, among the most authentic villages in Haute-Savoie.

What’s more, you can explore the many hiking trails and admire the breathtaking scenery.

Whether by car, motorcycle or bike, the Col de la Colombière is a must on the Grandes Alpes route.

Take advantage of our rentals in Le Grand-Bornand for an authentic mountain holiday!

 

The Alpe d’Huez climb

The Alpe d’Huez climb is THE race to complete at least once in your cycling life!

With its 21 numbered bends over almost 14 km, the Alpe d’Huez climb has become a legend, and has been climbed many times by Tour de France riders.

Alpe d’Huez is very popular, with an average of 300 cyclists climbing this mythical 1118m ascent every day.

Culminating at an altitude of 1850m, it is not the most difficult climb. However, it is very well known thanks to the numerous visits of the Tour de France and the famous cyclosportive “La Marmotte”, which is held every year in the resort.

Check out our many rentals in Alpe d’Huez for a sunny getaway!

 

The Col du Pré

 

At an altitude of 1703m and a vertical drop of 963m, the Col du Pré is an ascent from Beaufort to Lac de Roselend.

After a short link-up to the Col de Méraillet at 1605m, it’s also an alternative route for the ascent to Cormet de Roselend at 1968m.

This almost 13 km climb promises a succession of breathtaking panoramas and an unforgettable view of Lac de Roselend.

For the more adventurous, a beautiful hike awaits you from the Col du Pré, through the forest and offering superb views of Lac de Roselend, Pierra Menta and Mont-Blanc.

Take advantage of our apartment rentals in Les Saisies, in the heart of the Beaufortain region.

 

 

The Col de la Loze

 

Nestled in the heart of the Massif de la Vanoise, the Col de la Loze rises majestically to an altitude of 2304 m, offering cyclists and mountain lovers an ascent as epic as it is rewarding.

Located in the heart of the renowned “Three Valleys”, this pass links the resorts of Courchevel and Méribel.
With a length of over 23 km and an impressive vertical drop of 1715 m, this climb is a real challenge for cycling enthusiasts. But the effort is rewarded at every turn with breathtaking scenery, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Our Méribel rentals welcome you to the heart of the Massif de la Vanoise.