Cycling Routes in Les Arcs — 3 of Our Favourites

Col de l'Iseran 

This col is one of the most famous and challenging road bike climbs in the French Alps. At 2,764m, it is the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps, making it a legendary route for cyclists. It often features as part of a stage in the Tour de France, adding to its prestige among road cycling enthusiasts.

The climb can be tackled from either the northern or southern side.

From Bourg-Saint-Maurice (north)

Distance: ~48km
Elevation gain: ~1,955m
Average gradient: 4.1% (but steeper in sections)

Key features:

• a long but steady climb with breathtaking views
• passes through Val d’Isère, a famous ski resort
• some tunnels and avalanche protection structures
• the final stretch is exposed and can be affected by wind

From Bonneval-sur-Arc (south)

Distance: ~13.4km
Elevation gain: ~977m
Average gradient: 7.3%

Key features:

• shorter but steeper and more intense climb
• stunning high-mountain scenery with hairpin bends
• less traffic than the northern approach

It’s an epic challenge but well worth the effort for those who love high-mountain cycling.

Col du Petit Saint Bernard

With <1,400m of climbing, it has an average gradient of less than 5%. One of the most popular routes, it's ideal for riders looking for a steady, long climb without a brutal gradient.

A beautiful alpine climb, it links Bourg-Saint-Maurice to La Thuile in Italy via gentle gradients, sweeping bends and panoramic views. 

From Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Distance: ~26.5 km
Elevation gain: ~1,955m
Average gradient: ~5% (but steeper in sections)

Key features:

• starting from Bourg-St-Maurice, the climb follows the D1090, beginning gently and winding through alpine pastures and forests
• the route goes through numerous small hamlets and ski resorts, including La Rosière, a great stop off spot
• after La Rosière the route has long, sweeping switchbacks and views of Mont Blanc and the Tarentaise Valley
• at the summit you'll find a large stone column, a food truck or café in summer months 

Cormet de Roselend

Located on the Grandes Alpes route, the Cormet de Roselend road will take you close to the Chapieux Valley. If you head down the other side of the Cormet, you will get a great view of the turquoise waters of the Roselend Lake.

This route is for a favourite for road cyclists looking for both a challenge and unparalleled beauty. You can begin this route from Beaufort for a more scenic, classic route, or from Bourg-Saint-Maurice for a quieter, tougher approach.

From Beaufort (west)

Distance: ~20.36km
Elevation gain: ~1,227m
Average gradient: 6%

Key features:

• climb begins gently through wooded slopes and meadows
• first half leads you through small hamlets and farms with a gentle climb up to Lac de Roselend
• after the lake the steeper switchbacks begin to the summit
• views over the Mont Blanc massif on a clear day

From Bourg-Saint-Maurice (east)

Distance: ~19.3km
Elevation gain: ~1,150m
Average gradient: ~6%

Key features:

• less commonly climbed route with dense forests in the lower section
• approach to the summit feels more remote and wild

The summit:

You can expect panoramic views and a small monument, but no facilities so be sure to bring food and water. On busy summer day you may be lucky and find a food van, but don't bank on it. Come prepared.