Cycling Routes in Tignes — 3 of Our Favourites

Col du Petit Saint Bernard

The ascent is never brutal on this route, with an average gradient of around 5%. 

A beautiful alpine climb, begin by descending from Tignes (2,100m) to Bourg Saint Maurice (840m), which is a fast 30km descent. 

Distance: 120km return
Elevation gain: 2,000m to 2,200m
Average gradient: 4.9% (from Bourg St Maurice)
Summit elevation: 2,188m
Difficulty: hard

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 

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 Tignes Le Lac

Distance: 55km return
Elevation gain: ~1,100m
Average gradient: 5.5% (but steeper in sections)
Difficulty: challenging

Route description:

• descend 6km along D902 to Val d'Isère
• after the town begin the descent to Col de l'Iseran - the legendary TDF climb
• the final 6 to 7km are stunning with wide switchbacks, snow-capped peaks and panoramic views
• at the summit (2,770m) is a small chapel and a small café open in summer only
• the final stretch is exposed and the summit can be affected by wind - bring a windproof and warm layers
• avoid peak weekends for less traffic on the route

Tignes loop via Lac du Chevril

This short, yet satisfying ride is big on the views, offering the perfect marriage of effort and enjoyment. An ideal route to do in the morning before lunch back in resort.

From Tignes

Distance: 35 to 40km round trip
Elevation gain: 500m to 700m
Gradient: 6% to 7%
Highest point: Tignes Val Claret (2,100m)
Difficulty: moderate - ideal for intermediate cyclists or a lighter day in the saddle

Route description:

• head out from Tignes along the D902 through Tignes 1800 and Les Brévières
• as you pass through the ski villages and forests enjoy the views of waterfalls and cliffs
• after crossing the dam you'll begin a gentle climb to Val d'Isère
• stop for a coffee or lunch break in Val before heading back to Tignes via the same route