The cols here are all world famous, thanks to the rather well known road race, the Tour de France.
Col de l'Iseran
The area around Bourg St Maurice has the largest number of cols in the Tarentaise Valley
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.
What to see
Sights in Les Arcs
See all Sights in Les Arcs-
Visit website 
Minerals and Fauna of the Alps Museum
Wildlife and mineral collections
Alpine collection of minerals from around Bourg St Maurice and Mont Blanc and slideshows on the wildlife of the Alps.
-
Visit website 
Maison de la Pomme
Museum including a mill and workshop for pressing apples
Exhibits and short films about pressing apples in the Savoie region which includes information about experiments conducted to see how to preserve the juice.
-
Visit website 
Grotte de Glace Ice Caves
Explore the ice caves & wonderful carved ice sculptures
Situated at the top of the Transarc gondola in Arc 2000, the “Grotte de Glace” is quite an extraordinary place to visit. Dozens of sculptors from all over Europe spend a week here at the start of each season, carving wonderfully exotic figures out of the snow and ice.
-
Vanoise National Park 
Vanoise National Park
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region
The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region.
Where to lunch
Restaurants & Dining in Bourg-Saint-Maurice
See all Restaurants & Dining in Bourg-Saint-Maurice-
Enquire 
Plumes et Cassolettes Restaurant
Small and intimate popular rôtisserie and restaurant in Galerie La Cachette
Restaurant, wine bar, delicatessen and tasting of local products, Plumes and Cassolets offers a one-stop shop for your culinary desires.
-
Visit website 
L'Arssiban Restaurant
Featured in the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide for their great value cuisine
Food prepared by a chef who is "uncompromising and passionate about using fresh ingredients". Traditional Savoyard cuisine is complemented by the charming wood and stone decor.
-
Enquire 
Les Arolles and La Cabuche Restaurants
Choose from local cuisine and traditional Savoyard specialities at one of two restaurants at the Hotel Arcadien
Hotel Arcadien in in Arc 1600 welcomes you to its two fine restaurants.
What to do
Things To Do in Bourg-Saint-Maurice
See all Things To Do in Bourg-Saint-Maurice-
Visit website 
Rafting In The Alps
Half and full day white water rafting for all abilities from eight years-old
White water rafting is accessible to all who love the natural environment and who are in search of a bit of adventure. These excursions will leave you with some unforgettable memories.
-
Visit website 
Hydrospeeding
Half-day white water swimming/hydrospeeding. This is fast, fun and unforgettable
This activity is accessible to those comfortable in water, no need to be a professional diver or swimmer, you just have to be smart at using the water movements, obstacles and waves.
-
Enquire 
Helicopter tours
10, 30 or 60 minute private helicopter tours for up to five people
A fantastic way to see the resort with your friends and family and a great way to entertain any non-skiers in your group.
-
Enquire 
Horse drawn skiing
Try your hand at the classic sport of Ski Joering & enjoy some horse drawn skiing
Learn the skills needed for Ski Joering in Les Arcs.
-
Visit website 
Centre Nautique
Indoor and outdoor heated swimming pool
This 25m indoor swimming pool is open all year round with the exception of 1st January & 5th August. The outdoor pool is only open in July & August.
-
Enquire 
Vital'Gym, Bourg St Maurice
Fitness centre with dance classes, gymnastics & activities
This fitness centre offers an adult gym, cardio-step classes, gymnastics coaching, chi ball, pilates and nordic walking. There are lots of courses running through the week.
