Highlight • Mountain Pass
Col d'Izoard
Road cycling
4.9
(335)
Cycling
4.9
(149)
Mountain biking
4.8
(54)
Running
5.0
(5)
Alpine skiing
5.0
(1)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Cross-country skiing
5.0
(1)
The Col d'Izoard is a legendary mountain pass nestled in the French Alps, specifically within the Hautes-Alpes department. Reaching an elevation of 2,360 meters, this iconic pass connects the historic town of Briançon in the north with the scenic Guil valley, leading to Guillestre in the south, via the D902 road. It's a key part of the famous Route des Grandes Alpes and serves as a gateway to the Parc Naturel Régional du Queyras, making it a significant landmark for adventurers exploring the region.
Visitors consistently praise the Col d'Izoard for its dramatic landscapes and the profound sense of history that permeates its slopes. Many are captivated by the challenging yet rewarding ascents, particularly the "most beautiful climbs in the French Alps" that lead to breathtaking panoramic views. The pass is also celebrated for the memorable cycling clashes that have unfolded here, with its unique terrain forming an impressive backdrop for legendary moments in sports history.
Before embarking on your journey to the Col d'Izoard, it's helpful to know that the pass is generally accessible by road from early June to October. The two main approaches, from Briançon and Guillestre, offer distinct challenges. The southern ascent from Guillestre is often considered more demanding, with some of the steepest sections appearing in the last 10 kilometers. While the asphalt is smooth on both sides, preparing for varying weather conditions, especially at higher elevations, is always recommended.
The best time to visit the Col d'Izoard largely depends on your preferred activity. During the summer months, it's a prime destination for road cycling, hiking, and motorcycling, offering stunning views and a chance to experience its rich heritage. In winter, when the road is closed to vehicles, the area transforms into a serene playground for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ski touring, providing a different perspective on its majestic beauty.
One of the most striking features of the Col d'Izoard is the Casse Déserte on its upper south side. This almost lunar landscape, characterized by barren scree slopes and weathered rock pinnacles, creates a truly unique and unforgettable experience, especially when descending. At the summit, visitors can explore a small cycling museum and a memorial dedicated to cycling legends Fausto Coppi and Louison Bobet, adding to the pass's rich narrative.
Whether you're seeking challenging Col d'Izoard cycling routes, scenic hiking trails, or simply a drive through an iconic Alpine landscape, there are countless ways to experience this historic pass. With komoot, you can discover a variety of routes tailored to different abilities, from demanding climbs to more leisurely scenic viewpoints, ensuring every visitor can find their perfect adventure in this remarkable part of the French Alps.
Access to this Highlight may be restricted or limited.
Check ahead to confirm restricted segments are open to the public.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
February 18, 2023
Cycling
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April 23, 2022
Road cycling
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July 29, 2025
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Col d'Izoard
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,360 m
Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
6°C
-6°C
31 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main cycling routes and their difficulty levels for Col d'Izoard?
The Col d'Izoard offers two primary cycling ascents. From the south, starting at Guillestre, the climb is 31.5 km long with an average gradient of 4.8%, reaching a maximum sustained gradient of 12%. This side is often considered the most difficult, especially the last 10 kilometers. The northern approach from Briançon is 19 km long, with an average gradient of 5.8% and a maximum of 9.4%. Both routes feature smooth asphalt, and mountain pass cycling milestones mark the progress every kilometer.
Are there specific hiking trails or popular routes around Col d'Izoard?
While the Col d'Izoard is renowned for cycling, it also serves as an excellent starting point for hiking. The surrounding Parc Naturel Régional du Queyras offers numerous trails. For specific popular routes, hikers often explore paths leading from the pass into the diverse landscapes, including those offering views of the Casse Déserte. Many routes provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Alpine peaks, including the Queyras and Ubaye regions, and even glimpses of the Ecrins Massif.
What are the notable natural features and viewpoints at Col d'Izoard?
The most striking natural feature is the Casse Déserte on the upper south side. This unique area is characterized by barren scree slopes and dramatic, weathered rock pinnacles, creating an almost lunar landscape. At the summit, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine peaks, including the Queyras and Ubaye regions, the Ecrins Massif, Pelvoux, and even distant views of the Swiss Alps, Mont Blanc, and Mont Viso.
Is parking available at Col d'Izoard, and are there any public transport options?
Yes, parking is available at the summit of Col d'Izoard. However, during peak season, especially in summer, it can fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable. As for public transport, direct access to the summit via public bus services is generally limited. Most visitors arrive by car, motorcycle, or bicycle. The nearest towns like Briançon and Guillestre may have regional bus connections, but onward travel to the pass typically requires personal transport.
What are the best times of year for specific activities like cycling, hiking, or winter sports at Col d'Izoard?
The Col d'Izoard is generally accessible by road from early June to October, making this the best period for cycling, hiking, and motorcycling. During these months, the weather is most favorable, and the pass is fully open. In winter, typically from October to early June, the road closes to vehicles. This transforms the area into a serene destination ideal for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ski touring, offering a different, equally stunning perspective of the landscape.
Is Col d'Izoard suitable for families, and are there dog-friendly policies for trails?
The Col d'Izoard can be family-friendly, especially for scenic drives and short walks around the summit. The small cycling museum and the memorial at the top offer interesting points of interest. For longer hikes, families should consider the difficulty and elevation. Regarding dogs, the area is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas like the Parc Naturel Régional du Queyras, to protect wildlife and ensure safety. Always carry waste bags and ensure your dog is well-behaved around other visitors.
Are there cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near the Col d'Izoard summit?
At the summit of Col d'Izoard, you'll find a small building that often houses a cafe or refreshment stand during the open season. There is also a historic Refuge Napoléon, one of several built in the region. For more extensive dining options, pubs, or accommodation, you would need to descend to nearby towns such as Briançon to the north or Guillestre and the villages within the Queyras valley to the south. These towns offer a wider range of services for visitors.
What is the historical significance of Col d'Izoard beyond cycling?
Beyond its fame in professional cycling, the Col d'Izoard has a rich history. The road's construction began as early as Vauban's time, appearing on maps in 1710, and was made fully passable between 1893 and 1897. It initially served as a strategic military route crucial for protecting the French-Italian border. A memorial at the pass, inaugurated in 1934, pays tribute to General Baron Berge and the troops who built this vital mountain road.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted around Col d'Izoard?
The diverse ecosystems around Col d'Izoard, particularly within the Parc Naturel Régional du Queyras, support a variety of Alpine wildlife. Hikers and nature enthusiasts might spot marmots, chamois, and ibex in the higher rocky areas. Birdwatchers could look for raptors like eagles and buzzards. The flora also changes dramatically with elevation, from forest species to high-altitude alpine flowers, adding to the natural beauty of the pass.
Are there any permits required to access Col d'Izoard or its surrounding trails?
No specific permits are generally required to drive or cycle over the Col d'Izoard itself. Similarly, for most standard hiking trails in the surrounding areas, including within the Parc Naturel Régional du Queyras, permits are not typically needed for day use. However, visitors should always respect local regulations, especially concerning protected natural areas, and adhere to guidelines such as staying on marked paths and not disturbing wildlife.
How does the elevation of Col d'Izoard impact visitors?
The Col d'Izoard reaches an elevation of 2,360 meters (7,743 feet). At this altitude, visitors, especially those not accustomed to high elevations, might experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness such as shortness of breath or fatigue. It's advisable to stay hydrated and take it easy upon arrival. The higher elevation also means weather conditions can change rapidly, with cooler temperatures and stronger winds even in summer, so dressing in layers is always recommended.