Top 14 Mountain Passes around Saint-Étienne-De-Cuines

The region around Saint-Étienne-De-Cuines is renowned for its challenging cycling ascents. Two of the most demanding are the Col du Glandon and the Col de la Croix de Fer. The Col du Glandon, especially from La Chambre, features a 21.3 km climb with an average gradient of 6.9%, including sections exceeding 10%. The Col de la Croix de Fer, an "out of category" climb in the Tour de France, also offers varied and challenging ascents from different directions.

The Col du Chaussy is particularly famous for its dramatic approach via the "Lacets de Montvernier." This section features 17 tight hairpin bends compressed into a short, steep climb, making the road appear like laces running up the side of a cliff. It's an engineering marvel and a unique cycling experience.

The mountain passes offer breathtaking natural beauty. On the Col du Glandon, you'll find cinematic views of rugged peaks, glacial lakes like Lac de Grand Maison, and the imposing Verney dam. The Col de la Croix de Fer provides magnificent views of the Aiguilles d'Arves, the Arvan valley, and the peaks of the Sept-Laux massif, with an iconic iron cross at its summit. The Spectacular Cliffside Road Above Montvernier also offers impressive views of the valley and mountains.

The mountain passes in this region are typically open from mid-May to early November. Outside of these months, they are often closed due to heavy snow. The summer months offer the most reliable conditions for cycling and exploring, though it can be quite warm, especially on challenging ascents.

Yes, several passes in the region have a rich history with the Tour de France. Both the Col du Glandon and the Col de la Croix de Fer have been featured over 20 times, often playing a crucial role in the race. The Col du Chaussy, particularly its Lacets de Montvernier, has also gained fame after being included in the Tour multiple times since 2015.

Beyond cycling the passes themselves, the Saint-Étienne-De-Cuines area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain hikes, with options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the Lac du Collet – Les Plagnes loop or the Les Grands Moulins – Grande Montagne d'Arvillard loop. For more details on hiking, check out the Mountain Hikes around Saint-Étienne-De-Cuines guide. There are also running trails and dedicated road cycling routes available.

While many passes are remote, the Col du Chaussy summit offers a small chapel, a mountain hut providing food and drink, and a drinking water tap, making it a good spot for a break. The Col de la Madeleine, which can be accessed from La Chambre, also has a small restaurant at its summit.

Yes, combining passes is a popular option for epic cycling adventures. The Col du Glandon and the Col de la Croix de Fer are often ridden together, as their summits are only about 2.5 to 3 kilometers apart. You can also combine the Croix de Fer with other major climbs like the Galibier or Alpe d'Huez for an extended challenge.

Visitors frequently highlight the challenging climbs, the spectacular views, and the rich cycling history associated with these passes. The unique engineering of the Lacets de Montvernier on the Col du Chaussy is also a major draw. Many appreciate the sense of freedom and remoteness, even on well-known routes, with the sounds of waterfalls adding to the experience.

Compared to some of the more famous and frequently visited climbs, the Col du Chaussy is sometimes described as a lesser-known but equally rewarding experience, often with less traffic. The Col du Sapey also offers a road that meanders along the rock face with very little traffic and great views, making it a quieter option.

You can explore various road cycling routes that incorporate these iconic passes. For example, there are routes like the Col du Glandon – Itinéraires pour vélo de route en Maurienne, or loops combining Col du Chaussy with Col du Mollard. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Étienne-De-Cuines guide.