Top 20 Mountain Passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice
Best mountain passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice are found in the Tarentaise Valley, a region in the French Alps. This area provides access to various mountain passes, many of which are known for their challenging routes and scenic landscapes. The passes serve as connections between valleys and regions, offering diverse terrain for outdoor activities.
Best mountain passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice
- The most popular mountain passes is Tricot Pass, a mountain pass located on the Tour du Mont Blanc. It offers views of the Dôme de Miage and Mont Blanc.
- Another must-see spot is Col de la Seigne, an alpine pass at 2,516 meters above sea level. This pass marks the border between Italy and France, with a descent towards Les Chapieux.
- Visitors also love Col du Bonhomme, a mountain pass at 2,329 meters above sea level. It links the Val Montjoie to the Beaufortain region.
- Bourg-Saint-Maurice is known for alpine passes, routes on the Tour du Mont Blanc, and passes marking borders. These include high-altitude routes and those offering views of major massifs.
- The mountain passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice are appreciated by the komoot community, with 209 upvotes and 61 photos shared.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Tricot Pass
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Col de la Seigne
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Col du Bonhomme
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Col du Joly
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Col de la Croix du Bonhomme Refuge
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Tips from the Community
The pass is 1,989 m high and runs along a paved track between Beaufortain and Val Montjoie. The landscape is dominated by the Aguille Croche peak, where hiking trails lead to its northern summit, where the Alpine glaciers are located. From the summit you can also see the Aravis mountain range or the Girotte dam. In this sense, it is a very popular pass for mountain bike routes.
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The Col de Joly is an impressive mountain pass straddling the Savoie and Haute-Savoie regions. The impressive natural balcony formed at the top is remarkable, offering a wonderful view of the Montblanc massif. The pass is 1,989 m high. It runs along a paved track that runs between Beaufortain and Val Montjoie. The landscape is dominated by the Aguille Croche peak, where hiking trails lead to its northern summit, where the Alpine glaciers are located. From the summit we can also see the Aravis mountain range or the Girotte dam. In this sense, it is a very popular pass for mountain bike routes.
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On beautiful summer evenings, many people often sit up there next to their cars to admire the sunset at Mont Blanc!
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The Col de Tricot on the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is a mountain pass that enchants with its alpine grandeur. As you ascend to the col, the landscape unfolds in a spectacle of pristine beauty. Towering peaks, snow-capped summits, and meadows adorned with wildflowers surround the trail. Reaching the Col de Tricot is a rewarding challenge, and as you stand at this high mountain pass, you're greeted by breathtaking panoramic views. The air is crisp, and the silence is profound, interrupted only by the occasional rustle of the wind. The col provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the rugged beauty of the Mont Blanc Massif. Hikers often pause at the Col de Tricot, not only to catch their breath but to soak in the serene ambiance and to capture the majestic scenery in photographs.
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"La Porte du Bonheur" on the Tour du Mont Blanc is a captivating name that translates to "The Door of Happiness." This enchanting spot along the trail is more than a geographical point; it's a symbolic threshold to the joy and beauty that the Mont Blanc region unfolds. As trekkers traverse the Tour du Mont Blanc, they encounter "La Porte du Bonheur," an arch or a scenic vantage point that frames the breathtaking landscapes.
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The Col du Joly is a pass between Haute Savoie and La Savoie
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Easily reachable by pushing from Les Chapieux, from the other side it's only possible to go up through a steep scree and rock group with acrobatics and climbing, partly dangerous
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most challenging mountain passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice?
For experienced adventurers, the region offers several challenging passes. The Col de l'Iseran, at 2,770 meters, is the highest paved road in the Alps and features a 48km gradual climb from Bourg-Saint-Maurice. The Col de la Seigne is a beautiful alpine pass at 2,516 meters, known for its significant elevation. Additionally, the Col du Bonhomme, at 2,329 meters, is described as having a pretty steep climb.
Which mountain passes offer the best panoramic views?
Many passes in the area boast stunning vistas. The Col de l'Iseran provides breathtaking views at every turn. The Tricot Pass offers magnificent views of the Dôme de Miage and Mont Blanc. From the Col du Joly, you can enjoy a beautiful 360° view of the Mont-Blanc massif and the high peaks of Beaufortain. The Cormet de Roselend is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the Lac de Roselend.
Are there mountain passes with historical significance in the region?
Yes, the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard holds historical importance. It connects the La Thuile valley with the Isère valley and Bourg-Saint-Maurice, marking the border between France and Italy. This pass was historically used by troops and trading merchants, making it a significant route through the Alps.
What kind of natural scenery can I expect to see at these passes?
The mountain passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice are set amidst dramatic and rugged alpine landscapes. You can expect to see high-mountain scenery, including views of major massifs like Mont Blanc and the Dôme de Miage. Features like the large turquoise Lac de Roselend near Cormet de Roselend, and traditional chalets of the Beaufortain region, add to the scenic beauty.
Can I go cycling on the mountain passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice?
Absolutely. The region is a popular destination for cyclists. The Col de l'Iseran is famous for its long, winding roads, while the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard offers a challenging route for mountain biking. You can find various cycling routes, including road cycling and gravel biking, in the area. For more details, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice and Gravel biking around Bourg-Saint-Maurice guides.
What hiking opportunities are available near these mountain passes?
Many passes are integral to renowned hiking trails. The Tricot Pass and Col de la Seigne are significant points on the Tour du Mont Blanc hiking route. The Col de la Croix du Bonhomme is also a magnificent passage of the TMB. You can find more hiking options in the Mountain Passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice guide.
Are there any mountain passes that mark a border between countries?
Yes, several passes in the region serve as international borders. The Col de la Seigne marks the border between Italy and France. Similarly, the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard connects France and Italy. The Col de l'Ouillon also runs along the Italian border, offering rewarding walks.
What is the best time of year to visit the mountain passes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice?
The mountain passes are generally best visited during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September), when the roads are clear of snow and hiking trails are accessible. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for outdoor activities and enjoying the panoramic views.
Are there any passes with facilities like refuges or cafes?
Yes, the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme Refuge is a notable facility located at over 2,400 meters. It offers accommodation, drinking water, and toilets, making it a convenient stop for hikers on the Tour du Mont Blanc. It's advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak times.
What do visitors enjoy most about the mountain passes in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views and the sense of accomplishment from traversing these challenging routes. The dramatic landscapes, the opportunity to see iconic peaks like Mont Blanc, and the rich history of passes like the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard are often highlighted. The area is also appreciated for its diverse terrain suitable for various outdoor activities.
Are there mountain biking trails near these passes?
Yes, the region is excellent for mountain biking. The Col du Petit Saint-Bernard offers a challenging route, and the area around the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme is also great for mountain biking. You can find various MTB trails in the area, including difficult routes like the 'Tour des Arcs'. For more options, check out the MTB Trails around Bourg-Saint-Maurice guide.
Are there any passes that are part of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc route?
Yes, several passes in this region are significant points on the renowned Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) hiking route. These include the Tricot Pass, the Col de la Seigne, and the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. These passes offer spectacular high-mountain scenery and are key sections for those undertaking the TMB.
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