The best road cycling routes around Aussois

Aussois offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 35 options available. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from moderate rides to challenging ascents with significant elevation gain.

The prime season for road cycling in Aussois typically runs from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the high Alpine passes are generally clear of snow, offering optimal conditions to explore the Maurienne Valley and its challenging terrain.

While Aussois is known for its challenging Alpine terrain, there are routes with more moderate elevation gains. For a less strenuous option, consider the Aussois – Modane loop from Aussois, which is a moderate 13.7-mile (22.0 km) trail through the local valley. The village itself is recognized as a family resort, indicating a general family-friendly environment.

Aussois, being a hub for outdoor activities, offers various parking options within the village and near popular trailheads. Specific parking details can often be found on the individual route pages on komoot or local tourism information points.

Aussois is situated in the Maurienne Valley, which has public transport connections. While direct access to every trailhead via public transport might vary, the village of Aussois itself is accessible, and many routes start directly from there, such as the popular Aussois – Plan d'Amont loop from Aussois.

Aussois is located within the Vanoise National Park, a protected natural area. While dogs are generally welcome in many parts of the Maurienne Valley, specific regulations apply within the National Park to protect wildlife. It's advisable to check local signage or park guidelines regarding dogs, especially on trails that enter the core zone of the park.

Road cycling around Aussois offers breathtaking views of the Maurienne Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. You can encounter significant natural features like the Plan d'Amont Lake and the Rochemolles Lake and Dam. The area is also known for the Monolithe de Sardières and the Saint-Benoît waterfall. Routes like the Aussois – Summit and View of Aussois loop from Aérodrome de Sollières Sardières offer expansive views of the Aussois area and surrounding peaks.

Yes, Aussois is rich in history. Cyclists can explore the impressive Summit and View of Aussois – Barrière de L'Esseillon loop from Aussois, which leads past the Esseillon forts. These 19th-century fortresses are built into a natural rock barrier and offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.

Loop routes are a popular option in Aussois, allowing cyclists to start and finish in the same location. Several routes, such as the Aussois – Plan d'Amont loop from Aussois and the View of Lac du Plan d'Aval loop from Aussois, are designed as loops, providing convenient and scenic cycling experiences.

Aussois is characterized by significant Alpine terrain. While moderate routes might have around 500 meters of elevation gain, many challenging routes feature over 1,500 meters of ascent. For example, the Aussois – Plan d'Amont loop from Aussois includes over 1,500 meters of climbing, and other difficult routes can exceed 2,000 meters.

Aussois village itself offers various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. While on longer routes, especially those venturing into more remote areas or high passes, it's wise to carry sufficient supplies. Some routes might pass through smaller hamlets or near mountain huts like Rifugio Scarfiotti or Refuge du Saut, but their opening times can vary seasonally.

The road cycling routes in Aussois are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 65 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging ascents, the stunning Alpine scenery, and the well-maintained roads that lead to legendary passes and panoramic viewpoints.