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This content featured in Cycling Routes

Les 2 Alpes to Col du Galibier

Legendary high mountain climb that is the eighth highest paved road in the Alpes

Location
Les Deux Alpes
Imprint
Updated

Col du Galibier mountain pass is recurrently the highest point of the Tour de France

Col du Galibier

This col often features as part of a stage in the Tour de France, adding to its prestige among road cycling enthusiasts. First used in 1911 as part of the tour, the views at the top are some of the best in the Alps. Whilst the overall gradient is quite manageable, the final stretch is steeper and more exposed, especially the last 2-3km - making it a brutal test of endurance.

From Les Deux Alpes

Distance: 90km to 100km return
Elevation gain: 2,100m to 2,300m
Average gradient: 4.6% overall (but steeper in sections)

Route description:

  • descend to the Barrage du Chambon, then follow the D1091 towards La Grave and Col du Lautaret
  • the climb from the dam to Lautaret is long (around 30km), but relatively steady
  • from Col du Lautaret (2,058m) turn right for the iconic Col du Galibier, a short but intense 8km at between 7% to 9% gradient, it's dig deep time
  • return the same way for a thrillingly fast descent

Tip: 
Ride early in the day and bring layers - it's often cold and windy at the top, even in summer

Cycle hire

Bike Hire in Les 2 Alpes

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What to see

Sights in Les 2 Alpes

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Where to lunch

Restaurants in Les Deux Alpes

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What to do

Things To Do in Les Deux Alpes

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Latest News & Reviews

Find out all about what is happening in Les Deux Alpes and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.

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Upcoming Events

In winter the resort is host to a number of international festivals and skiing events. The Rise Festival just before Christmas features big name bands and DJs, while other big winter events include the Mad Snow Race in January. In the summer, snow camps and freestyle ski competitions take place on the glacier, while the legendary mountain bike race, the Mountain of Hell, takes place at the end of June.

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Les Deux Alpes in February 2020 - What weather to expect & what to do
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