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Mountain biking trails
France
Provence-Alpes-Côte D'Azur
Provence
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Briançon
Villar-Saint-Pancrace

The Izoard loop — Les Hautes-Vallées

Hard

68

riders

The Izoard loop — Les Hautes-Vallées

06:59

95.4km

2,150m

Mountain biking

This magnificent route offers the discovery of an emblematic passage of the Southern Alps: the Col de l’Izoard. Dominating the Hautes Vallées (Grave, Clarée and Izoard), the Col de l'Izoard stands out as an exceptional objective for cycling enthusiasts. Witness to the exploits of the Tour de France, it is one of the legendary passes in France. The breathtaking view from the summit alone justifies tackling its steep slopes.

The start is in the small town of Villard-Saint-Pancrace not far from Briançon. The first part of the route remains relatively accessible and affordable before tackling the ascent of the Izoard. You start with a portion slightly on the mountainside which dominates the valley. After a detour through Les Vigneaux, you continue towards La Roche-de-Rame. There follows a short but beautiful climb via the Chambon.

The charming village of Guillestre, ideal for a short break, opens the doors to the Guil gorges. Natural entrance to the Queyras park, this canyon carved by the river offers a magical natural spectacle. Take advantage of it before starting the ascent towards the Col de l’Izoard. It is a little before the hamlet of Moulins that the effort begins. 16 kilometers of climbing at an average of 7%, with passages that can reach 12% await you. Savor this beautiful and legendary ascent marked by its many emblematic bends. At the top, enjoy the fantastic view before descending towards the Napoléon refuge, one kilometer further, to enjoy a well-deserved break.

The last portion of the route is mainly downhill. The kilometers pass quickly and allow you to realize the feat you have just accomplished. You cross Briançon before returning to the starting point at Villard-Saint-Pancrace.

And why not go for a week by bike with the famous “Grand Cols Tour”? This summer, from July 4 to 9, 2024, enjoy a unique experience through the preserved landscapes of Guillestrois-Queyras, the Hautes Vallées de la Grave, la Clarée and l'Izoard and Briançonnais. Discover a pass every day between the Col du Galibier, Col du Granon, the Col de l'Izoard, Agnel or even the Col de l'Echelle. More info here: https://www.izoard-tourisme.fr/evenements/cols-reserves

by

Last updated: June 3, 2024

Tips

Includes a segment that goes up or down a series of steps

You may need to carry your bike.

After 42.8 km for 2 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Get Directions

1

29.3 km

Climb to Le Chambon

Highlight (Segment) • Climb

The road is free of traffic, the climb does not present any particular difficulties and the asphalt is in excellent condition.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

2

43.0 km

Guillestre Town Center

Highlight • Settlement

Pretty little village with a centre worth visiting.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

3

48.0 km

The Gorges du Guil

Highlight • Other

The Guil gorges are one of the natural gateways to the Queyras national park. The torrential river has carved exceptional gorges out of the rock. This canyon, on numerous occasions, has served as a scene for filming films. Nature is felt here in its raw state.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4

73.4 km

Col d'Izoard

Highlight • Mountain Pass

The Col d'Izoard is a climb that connects Briançon with the Guille valley. On both sides to climb on smooth asphalt. The south side is known as the most difficult, because certainly the last 10 kilometers are very steep.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

5

74.4 km

Refuge Napoléon Col d'Izoard

Highlight • Mountain Hut

Refuge Napoléon is a place you must stop during your bike ride over the Col d'Izoard. Nowhere else do the cakes taste as good as here. And that is not because of the sweet taste of your victory at the Izoard, but because the pastry here is really good. You will find the Refuge Napoléon after a kilometer descent from the north side of the Col d'Izoard, or in the last kilometer of your climb (but do you stop for cake?). Sit on the terrace, enjoy the view and be pampered.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

B

95.4 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

68.7 km

21.2 km

3.34 km

1.47 km

397 m

375 m

Surfaces

91.2 km

2.38 km

1.35 km

328 m

249 m

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Elevation

Elevation

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Highest point (2,350 m)

Lowest point (880 m)

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Weather

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Friday 17 July

26°C

10°C

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Comments

April 29, 2024

This magnificent route offers the discovery of an emblematic passage of the Southern Alps: the Col de l’Izoard. Dominating the Hautes Vallées (Grave, Clarée and Izoard), the Col de l'Izoard stands out as an exceptional objective for cycling enthusiasts. Witness to the exploits of the Tour de France

Translated by Google •

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