Author: Will

Col des Annes – (Very) Steep & Quiet. Plus Col de la Colombière

At just over 100 kilometres and 3000 metres of ascent, this quintessential north Alps cycling loop climbs the best roads surrounding Morzine.

Mountain biking above Courchevel: Three high altitude Cols and the stunning Vallon des Avals

A fairly magical route climbing both the French and Italian sides of Col du Mont Cenis, as well as a brilliant detour up to the Col du Petit Mont Cenis.

Part of my 2011 Challenge was to ride above 3000 metres by bike for the first time. Injury delayed this goal, but I hadn’t forgotten. 🙂

Thanks to Ashley for pointing out this truly spectacular high altitude (2385 metres), fully paved, climb in the Haute Maurienne Alps.

I have had the good fortune to cycle Col du Glandon twice this summer. To watch the Tour, and on bike-only day. Nice.

The Mauriennne Valley is full of many of the biggest and most famous climbs in France – see here – but there are also many other lessor known gems that shouldn’t be ignored.

A map of big cycling climbs in the Dolomites region of Italy. Along with photos and descriptions of five great routes.

A few weeks ago while cycling Col de la Madeleine and Lachat I could see into the next valley and noticed some amazing hairpins up high. I vowed to take a closer look.