The best road cycling routes around Saint-Rémy-De-Maurienne

The Saint-Rémy-De-Maurienne area, nestled in the Maurienne Valley, offers over 50 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from less demanding rides to challenging climbs with significant elevation gains, reflecting the region's diverse terrain and reputation as a premier cycling destination.

The best time for road cycling in Saint-Rémy-De-Maurienne is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more favorable weather conditions for tackling the region's mountain passes and enjoying the Alpine landscapes. Many high-altitude cols are only accessible during summer due to snow.

While the Maurienne Valley is famous for its challenging mountain passes, there are options for less experienced riders. Out of the 55 routes available, 10 are classified as easy, offering a gentler introduction to road cycling in the Alpine environment. These routes allow you to enjoy the scenery without extreme climbs.

Saint-Rémy-De-Maurienne is a hub for challenging climbs, with 27 routes classified as difficult. You can tackle legendary cols frequently featured in the Tour de France, such as the Col de la Madeleine, which ascends over 1500 meters. Other notable climbs include the Col du Chaussy and the Lacets de Montvernier, offering significant elevation gains and panoramic views.

Yes, the region offers several excellent loop routes. For example, the Col du Chaussy – Col du Mollard loop from Saint-Avre - La Chambre is a challenging 101.6 km path that navigates multiple cols. Another option is the View of the Maurienne Valley – Col de Chaussy loop from Saint-Avre - La Chambre, a 41.5 km trail through Alpine landscapes.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by significant landmarks. You can encounter iconic mountain passes like Col du Chaussy, Col du Grand Cucheron, and Col de la Madeleine. The Montvernier Hairpins are also a famous sight, known for their dramatic switchbacks. Some routes even lead towards the Vanoise National Park, offering opportunities to spot wildlife.

The road cycling routes around Saint-Rémy-De-Maurienne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging nature of the mountain passes, the breathtaking Alpine scenery, and the strong cycling culture of the Maurienne Valley, often referred to as the 'largest cycling area in the world'.

While many routes are geared towards experienced cyclists, the Maurienne Valley does offer areas suitable for families. For instance, the Lac Bleu leisure area provides a more relaxed setting with opportunities for picnicking and children's games, and potentially flatter sections for cycling. Look for routes classified as 'easy' for less strenuous rides.

The Maurienne Valley is very cyclist-friendly, boasting over 100 establishments with a 'welcome cyclist' label ('Accueil Vélo'). These places offer dedicated services for riders, such as secure bike storage, repair kits, and adapted meals. You'll find these services in villages and towns throughout the valley, including those near Saint-Rémy-De-Maurienne.

Route durations vary significantly based on difficulty and distance. Shorter, more challenging climbs like the Col de la Madeleine can take around 2 hours 26 minutes for 19.8 km. Longer, difficult loops such as the Col du Chaussy – Col du Mollard loop can extend to over 6 hours for 101.6 km, requiring a full day's commitment.

The entire Maurienne Valley is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, offering breathtaking panoramas throughout your rides. Routes like the View of the Maurienne Valley – Col de Chaussy loop are specifically named for their scenic vistas. You'll encounter snow-kissed summits, glistening glaciers, and verdant meadows on many of the high-altitude routes.

For additional information about Saint-Rémy-De-Maurienne and its local offerings, you can visit the official tourism website for the area. This can provide details on local amenities, events, and other activities beyond cycling. You can find more details at tourisme-la-chambre.com.