FBRIANçON TO MONTVERNIER, PASSING THROUGH MOUNTAIN PASSES
The journey begins in Briançon, a fortified town nestled in the French Alps, known for its dramatic scenery and historic significance. As you depart the town, the road winds upwards through the pristine alpine landscape, offering sweeping views of rugged mountains, lush valleys, and crystal-clear rivers.
Col du Granon
The first major ascent takes you to the Col du Granon, a spectacular climb that reaches an altitude of 2,413 meters. This lesser-known pass is a hidden gem, offering quieter roads and a more serene experience. The views at the summit are awe-inspiring, with panoramic vistas of the Écrins Massif and the surrounding valleys. It's a challenging climb, but the reward is in the serene beauty of the untouched nature.
Col du Lautaret
After descending from the Granon, the road leads you toward the Col du Lautaret, another iconic pass at 2,058 meters. The approach to the Lautaret is wide and open, with a gentle incline and breathtaking views of glaciers and towering peaks like La Meije. The pass itself is a historic route, linking the southern and northern Alps, and has been a key part of the Tour de France multiple times.
Col du Galibier
As you ascend further, the road becomes more demanding, leading to the Col du Galibier at 2,642 meters, one of the highest and most famous passes in the Alps. The climb is steep and unforgiving, but the stunning vistas at the summit make every pedal stroke or gear shift worthwhile. From here, you can look back over the road you’ve conquered and forward to the snow-capped peaks ahead. On clear days, the view stretches seemingly forever, offering one of the most iconic panoramas in the French Alps.
Col du Télégraph:
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Descending from the Galibier, you head towards the Col du Télégraphe (1,566 meters), a shorter but no less impressive climb. The road here is lined with thick forests, and the fresh mountain air invigorates you as you descend into the Maurienne Valley. The Télégraphe is often seen as the prelude to the Galibier, but on its own, it is a beautiful and challenging climb with serene landscapes and tight hairpin bends.
Lacets de Montvernier
Next, you reach one of the most spectacular and photographed sections of the route, the Lacets de Montvernier. These “laces” are a series of tight, picturesque switchbacks that snake up the mountainside in a mesmerizing pattern. The road here is narrow and clings to the steep slopes, offering exhilarating views with each turn. This section is relatively short but packs a visual punch, making it one of the highlights of the entire journey.
Arrival in Montvernier:
After navigating the Lacets, you arrive in the charming village of Montvernier, a perfect spot to relax after the morning’s challenges. Montvernier is a tranquil Alpine village, surrounded by greenery and mountain views. For lunch, you can stop at an excellent local restaurant, where you’ll be treated to hearty, traditional French cuisine. Savor dishes made with local ingredients, including mountain cheeses, charcuterie, and perhaps a glass of fine Savoie wine to toast the day’s adventure.
This road trip is not just a journey through the Alps; it's an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty, historic climbs, and exhilarating descents. Each pass offers its own unique charm, and by the time you reach Montvernier, you'll have a treasure trove of memories from one of the most spectacular roads in the world.
