Col de la Colombière and Col des Aravis Loop

This loop is classified as difficult and requires very good fitness due to its significant elevation gain of over 2,500 meters and steep sections. Both the Col de la Colombière and Col des Aravis feature demanding climbs, with some gradients reaching 10-10.5% on the Colombière and double-digit gradients on the steeper side of Aravis.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from May to October. For the most pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, June and September are often recommended. Always check if the passes are open in late autumn or early spring, as they can be affected by snow.

You'll encounter several iconic spots, including the Col des Aravis and the Col de la Colombière. Don't miss the Amazing view on the descent of Colombière to Annecy. Other notable points include the Route du Col de Romme and the Arpenaz Waterfall.

Expect breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lush alpine meadows, and charming traditional villages. The route offers panoramic vistas of the French Alps, and on a clear day, you might even spot Mont Blanc. The Col des Aravis winds through pastures with grazing sheep and cows, while the Col de la Colombière provides views of the Aravis chain and the mineral landscapes of the Bargy range.

While the Komoot tour starts and ends at Col des Aravis, you can begin this loop from various points in the surrounding valleys, such as Le Grand Bornand, La Clusaz, or even further afield like Scionzier or Cluses. Parking is generally available in these towns, and at the summits of both cols, though it can be busy during peak season.

No, you do not need any special permits or have to pay entrance fees to cycle this road cycling loop in the French Alps. The roads are public and freely accessible.

This is a road cycling route, so bringing a dog along would typically mean having them in a specialized bike trailer or basket. While the route itself is public road, facilities for dogs are not specifically highlighted. If you plan to stop, ensure your dog is comfortable with crowds and traffic at the busy col summits.

Yes, both the Col de la Colombière and Col des Aravis summits offer facilities for cyclists, including options for food and water. The Col des Aravis, in particular, is often bustling with restaurants and shops.

Yes, this loop incorporates sections of several other official trails. Notably, it covers parts of the 'Route des Grandes Alpes à vélo, étape 3, Le Grand-Bornand / Beaufort-sur-Doron' and 'Route des Grandes Alpes à vélo, étape 2, Cluses / Le Grand-Bornand'. You'll also find it intersects with the 'Traversée Aravis / Arly' and 'Traversée des Aravis'.

Both the Col de la Colombière and Col des Aravis are famous and frequently featured climbs in the Tour de France, making them iconic challenges for cyclists. The Colombière has been included over 22 times since 1960, and the Aravis has appeared more than 41 times, cementing their place in cycling history.

The ascent of the Col de la Colombière from Scionzier (North Side) is generally considered the more challenging approach. It stretches 16.3 km with an average gradient of 6.8% and a maximum of 10.2%, becoming significantly steeper with switchbacks in the final kilometers. The climb from Le Grand Bornand (South Side) is initially more forgiving but also intensifies towards the summit.