Col de
l'Iseran
North Side
47.5 kms; 2,030 metres ascent; Start:
Bourg St Maurice Top: 2,770
metres
Last Climbed: July
2005
Driving Directions
GPX Files
Over 9,000 feetFrom Bourg St_Maurice, the Col de l'Iseran is the longest climb in France at 47.5 kms. High above Val d'Isere ski resort the summit is also one of the highest roads in Europe at 2,770 metres. It first appeared in the Tour de france in 1938. It has only appeared a few times in the Tour and not at all between 1963 and 1992. It's last appearance, in 1996, saw the riders cross in cars as snow made it unrideable. July 2005 - I am writing this entry from a little bistro in Val d'Isere - a ski resort high in the French Alps. We have just finished climbing the famous col d'iseran. Formerly the highest road in Europe at 2770 metres (+9000 feet). We 1st saw this col on a hike during a ski vacation - I kept saying what a great bike route it would be - not realizing it was one of the most famous cycling climbs in the alps. I often say a ride is beautiful - but this ride is truly stunning. The route climbs along the edge of a mountain and almost climbs over the mountains. Epic!
I first saw the Col de l'Iseran while skiing at Val d'Isere (see photo below) but I had to wait until mid June until the road was opened to cycle up it.
