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France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes
Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne

Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne

The best cycling routes around Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne

4.2

(226)

12,601

riders

22

rides

Touring cycling routes around Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne are situated in the heart of the Maurienne Valley in the French Alps. This region is characterized by dramatic alpine scenery, featuring snow-capped peaks, iconic mountain passes, and verdant river valleys along the Arc River. The terrain offers a diverse range of cycling experiences, from challenging high-altitude climbs to more tranquil routes through lower pastures.

Best touring cycling routes around Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier et…

Last updated: May 9, 2026

4.7

(23)

1,690

riders

#1.

Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier et Col du Lautaret – Parc national des Écrins

86.5km

07:13

2,850m

2,850m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Popular around Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne

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Tips from the Community

Pussy et Gégé
February 18, 2026, Col du Mollard

lol

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The history of the tower bells (continued) The next writings date from the revolutionary period: the bells were taken down on December 12 and 13, 1793. During this operation, the third bell, known as "la None" (likely because it was particularly used by the chapter for this office), was broken. On December 21, it was decreed that the four largest bells would be weighed in Chambéry as they could not be weighed in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne1. The following day, the syndic-procurator of Arc informed the general syndic-procurator of the dispatch of 24 bells to Chambéry, including: 9 bells from the Chapter, 4 from Saint-Christophe, 2 from the Bernardines, 1 from the Capucins, 1 from the Pénitents, 1 from Saint-Antoine, 1 from the Miséricorde, 1 from Bonne-Nouvelle, 1 from Notre-Dame, and 1 from the Collège. This would make a total of 10 bells for the Grand Clocher tower of the Cathedral and Notre-Dame. Several writings indicated that the cathedral's carillon consisted of 11 bells. With the obligation to leave one bell per belfry to sound alarms and civil assemblies, the cross-referencing of information therefore provides a certain logic. Private archives offer a variation to the above information in a writing by abbé Guiguet, vicar at the cathedral between 1853 and 1858. He recounts "from contemporary and eyewitnesses" that the cathedral's carillon was composed, as of December 2, 1793, "of nine bells; three formed, as today, the clock's chime, but they were arranged to serve simultaneously for the carillon. They were preserved, along with the clock". At the Concordat, the three bells of the clock and its movement seem to have been reinstalled, meaning they were not sent to Chambéry in 1793. In the 19th century, the cathedral's liturgical carillon was therefore partially reconstituted. In 1812, a bell known as "des Pénitents" was cast in Briançon, likely by the Vallier and Gautier dynasties, founders active in that town who also largely contributed to the repopulation of Savoyard belfries during that period. In 1828, the large bell cracked, and a new one was immediately commissioned by the Chapter. This bell cost 1994.6 livres at a rate of 36 livres per quintal, weighed in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, a sum fixed on September 17, 1828. Payment was made to the founders Jean-François Gautier and François Vallier on September 14, 1829, after a one-year guarantee on the bell. The years 1864 and 1865 saw the arrival of two bells in the belfry: first the third by the Beauquis brothers, then the second by the Paccard brothers. No archives have been found to help contextualize these purchases. Many questions remain open, particularly that of a recasting or an addition, but also the manufacturing of these two bells (a year apart!) by these two competing founders! At the end of 1873, the small "Pénitents" bell cracked. A new bell was ordered from the Paccard brothers. A quote was submitted to the chapter with the trade-in of the old bell, weighing 174 kilos. A new bell weighing 228 kilos would therefore be installed in its place. In 1935, the ringing bells of the Grand Clocher were electrified. They first started with the three large ones, considering that "the small bell is not suitable for this transformation". The municipality took charge of burying the electrical wires between the sacristy and the Grand Clocher, and the diocese financed the electrification itself. It was probably at this time that the "Cloche du Chapitre", installed in the slender belfry adjoining the cathedral, was silenced. Its access is unfortunately impossible today, but its rehabilitation is under study. We hope to be able to reach it one day to uncover its secrets and give it liturgical use again! Although the cathedral chapter is currently dormant, new practices are emerging in the cathedral. A "guard of honor" has formed around the relics that the cathedral houses. It notably organizes public or private venerations and participates in the great liturgical hours of the cathedral, the mother church of the diocese.

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Pussy et Gégé
February 15, 2026, Musée Opinel

Located in the heart of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne (Savoie), this museum retraces the history of the famous Savoyard Opinel knife, created in 1890 by Joseph Opinel. It showcases an object that has become an emblem of French craftsmanship. 🏛️ What you'll discover The history of the Opinel family and the company The evolution of the models (from the peasant knife to designer series) The manufacturing process and materials Antique pieces, prototypes, and special editions A space dedicated to design and uses (mountaineering, cooking, DIY) 📍 Practical information Location: Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne town center Access: Easy walking distance from the cathedral Audience: Suitable for all ages (families, local history enthusiasts, design lovers) Note: Admission is free

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The history of the tower bells The large bell tower of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne is imposing with its silhouette and large dimensions. It should be known that, in reality, it was initially the bell tower of the Notre-Dame church, neighboring the cathedral. This enormous tower was adorned with a spire between the 15th century and the Revolution, making it a tower of almost 80 meters! When it was razed, this spire fell on the church and damaged the nave. The religious building was therefore reduced, and the street separating them was created. This bell tower housed, during its golden age, a peal of over 10 bells! On May 10, 1326, the Confraternity of the Holy Spirit requested permission from the canons to use a bell to announce their assemblies. This request was granted. The archives of the chapter of Vercelli (Italy) house a document of interest to the bell history of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne: in 1475, Amédée Gavit, vicar of Cardinal d'Estouteville, then bishop of Maurienne, commissioned Claude Milon of Geneva and Claude Vionnet of Sallanches (Faucigny) to cast new bells for the cathedral. Unfortunately, there are not enough elements to fully appreciate the work that took place there. Another document, found in the parish archives of Saint-Pancrace, precisely details the casting of new bells during the summer of 1667. Canon Nicolas Féjoz recounts the following: • On July 23, the large bell was lowered, and on July 26, the second bell. Both were recast on July 30: the large bell under the invocation of All Saints and the second in honor of Saint John the Baptist. • On August 3, a contract was made to recast the fourth and fifth bells. • On August 8, the bishop blessed the two large bells and another bell, also dedicated to All Saints. We do not know what rank this last one occupied in the peal... • On September 7, the bishop blessed four new bells: the fourth, fifth, sixth, and ninth bells in order of weight. In 1712, Canon Cueillerat paid 200 florins to Georges Arnaud, a founder from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, for the casting of a bell for the Notre-Dame church.

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This 11th-century tower was the bell tower of the Notre-Dame church. In the 15th century, a very large spire of almost 80 meters adorned the bell tower. This part was demolished by the French revolutionaries in 1794. The trace of the revolution is still visible on the East face of the bell tower. Part of the Notre-Dame church was damaged during the destruction of its bell tower. They are now separated by a street. Its condition does not allow it to be opened to the public, but it occasionally hosts exhibitions visible from the ground-floor windows.

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https://www.maurienne-galibier.com/fr/il4-patrimoine,culturel_i6255367-eglise-de-saint-michel-de-maurienne.aspx

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne?

The region offers a diverse range of terrain, from challenging high-altitude climbs on iconic mountain passes like Col du Galibier and Col du Télégraphe to more tranquil routes through verdant river valleys along the Arc River. You'll encounter dramatic alpine scenery, snow-capped peaks, and lush lower pastures.

Are there any moderate touring cycling routes available in Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne?

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options for moderate difficulty. For instance, the Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne – Télégraphe Pass loop from Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne is a moderate 33.5 km path that offers a less demanding experience while still showcasing the region's beauty.

What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see while cycling in the area?

The Maurienne Valley is rich in natural beauty and landmarks. You can cycle past the famous Col du Télégraphe, enjoy views of stunning lakes like Lac du Lou and Lac Vert, or even catch glimpses of majestic peaks like Les Aiguilles d’Arves. The charming Valloire Village is also a popular stop.

What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne?

The touring cycling routes in Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 out of 5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the breathtaking alpine scenery, the challenge of the iconic mountain passes, and the well-maintained paths.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes starting from Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne?

Yes, several circular routes are available. A popular option is the Valloire Village Center – Télégraphe Pass loop from Saint-Michel - Valloire, a challenging 56.7 km ride featuring the renowned Col du Télégraphe. Another is the Beau Plan Pass loop from Saint-Michel - Valloire, which is 31.8 km long and takes you through beautiful alpine landscapes.

When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in the Maurienne Valley?

The best time for touring cycling in the Maurienne Valley, especially for tackling the high mountain passes, is typically from late spring (June) through early autumn (September). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and the passes are clear of snow. Always check local weather and road conditions before heading out.

Can I find cafes or restaurants along the popular cycling routes?

Yes, especially in the villages and towns along the routes. Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne itself offers various services, and towns like Valloire and Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne provide cafes and restaurants. On some of the more famous passes like Col du Galibier and Col du Télégraphe, you might find seasonal establishments catering to cyclists.

What are the options for parking my car if I want to cycle in Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne?

Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne, being a central point in the Maurienne Valley, offers various parking options. You can typically find parking near the train station or in designated public parking areas within the town, providing convenient access to the start of many cycling routes.

Is it possible to access cycling routes using public transport in the Maurienne Valley?

Yes, public transport can be a good option. The train station in Saint-Michel-De-Maurienne connects to other parts of the valley and beyond, making it accessible for cyclists. Additionally, some local bus services might accommodate bikes, especially during peak cycling season, allowing you to reach various starting points for your tours.

Are there any particularly challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?

Absolutely. The Maurienne Valley is renowned for its challenging climbs. The Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier et Col du Lautaret – Parc national des Écrins route is a prime example, covering 86.5 km with significant elevation gain across multiple legendary alpine passes. Another demanding option is the Télégraphe Pass – Mollard Pass loop from Saint-Michel - Valloire, which is 76.2 km long and features considerable climbing.

Where can I find more information about cycling in the Maurienne Valley?

For additional details and resources about cycling in the wider Maurienne Valley, including information on other routes and services, you can visit the official tourism website: maurienne-tourisme.com/cycling/.

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