The best road cycling routes around Saint-Bernard

There are over 140 road cycling routes in the Saint-Bernard region, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

The Saint-Bernard region features diverse terrain, from challenging high mountain environments with iconic passes like the Great St. Bernard, to more accessible routes through wooded valleys and open, green pastures. You'll encounter grey peaks, U-shaped valleys, and well-maintained roads suitable for both ascents and descents.

Yes, the region offers routes suitable for beginners. For instance, the Little St. Bernard Pass is considered more accessible, with an average gradient of less than 5%. Overall, there are 17 easy routes available, providing a gentler introduction to road cycling in the Alps.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Great St. Bernard Pass is an iconic climb, ascending 1878 meters with an average gradient of 5.8% on the Italian side. Another demanding option is the Col de Porte (1326 m) – Granier Pass loop from Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet, which covers 96.5 km with significant elevation gain.

Yes, many routes in the Saint-Bernard region are designed as loops. For example, the Allevard – Lovely road in the valley loop from Lumbin offers a moderate 56.7 km path, while the Col de Marcieu Road – Marcieu Pass (1,060 m) loop from Le Touvet is a shorter 29.5 km option through mountain passes.

The Saint-Bernard passes are rich in history. You can visit the Great St. Bernard Hospice and the Hospice du Petit Saint Bernard at their respective summits, both founded in the 11th century. The Great St. Bernard Hospice is famously associated with the breeding of St. Bernard dogs. The region also features ancient routes used by Romans and medieval pilgrims, and charming villages like Gignod and Étroubles on the Italian side of the Great St. Bernard Pass.

Absolutely. Cyclists are treated to expansive vistas of grey peaks and high alpine scenery. A beautiful lake is situated at the top of the Great St. Bernard Pass, offering a serene stop. From the French side of the Little St. Bernard Pass, after La Rosière, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the Tarentaise Valley. You can also find natural highlights like the Saint-Même Cirque Waterfalls and the Dent de Crolles summit nearby.

The road cycling routes in Saint-Bernard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning Alpine landscapes, the challenge of the iconic passes, and the well-maintained roads that make for enjoyable rides.

The best time for road cycling in the Saint-Bernard region is typically from late spring to early autumn, when the high mountain passes are clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Always check local conditions, especially for the higher passes, as they can open later or close earlier depending on snowfall.

Yes, the Little St. Bernard Pass offers spectacular views of Mont Blanc. As you ascend from Bourg-Saint-Maurice in France and pass La Rosière, the route opens up to stunning green pastures and panoramic vistas of Mont Blanc and the Tarentaise Valley.

Yes, stopping for coffee at the summit of the Great St. Bernard Pass is a popular tradition. Additionally, cycling through charming villages like Gignod, Étroubles, and Saint-Oyen on the Italian side of the Great St. Bernard Pass offers opportunities to experience traditional Val d'Aosta life and find places for refreshments.