a bike resting by a sign near val disere

Col de l'Iseran

Take on Europe's highest paved pass with a start and finish in Tignes Le Lac

Location: Tignes
Imprint: Updated 7 April 2025

Iconic col route that regularly features in the Tour de France

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

What to see

Vanoise National Park

Distance from location
14.8 km

The Vanoise National Park is one of the highlights of the Tarentaise region.

Where to lunch

L'Arti Restaurant

Location
Tignes

Dine in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, in a restaurant that evokes mountain charm mixed with a touch of the seventies.
Les 3 Caves Restaurant

La Folie Douce Val d'Isère opened a new kind of restaurant: Les 3 Caves. A unique experience with exceptional products worked with flavour and refinement.
L'Alpage des Chaudannes Restaurant

Location
Tignes

This cosy restaurant is located on the massif de L'Aiguille Percée, between Tignes le Lac and Tignes les Boisses.
La Petite Cuisine Restaurant

Location
Val d’Isere

La Petite Cuisine is La Folie Douce's gourmet-quality, canteen-style restaurant. They serve a perfect mix of high-class local cuisine in a friendly, family atmosphere.
Lo Soli Restaurant

Location
Tignes

This restaurant situated on the massif de l'Aiguille Percée, between Tignes le Lac and Tignes Les Boisses is open for lunch.
La Fruitière Restaurant

Location
Val d’Isere

Located at the top of the Daille bubble, within the celebrated La Folie Douce après-ski and gourmet hotspot, La Fruitière serves delicious modern dishes based on traditional flavours.

What to do

Whitewater Rafting

Location
Tignes

Rafting is the most accessible water sports activity on offer. Whether you are looking for an amateur sport, a nature experience or simply a first taste of what a river can offer, you will love this activity!
Chemin des Berger Quad & Buggy Tour

Location
Tignes

Explore the mountain paths and take advantage of the wonderful backdrop on one of these 4x4 vehicles.
Horse Riding

Horse ride through the mountains with the Tignes Horse Riding Centre or go on a leisurely pony ride through the mountains.
School of Ice Diving

Experience the sub aquatic world, the beauty of the colours below and the explore the icy lake in Tignes.
Le Lagon Sports Centre

Watersports complex in Tignes with swimming pool, gym and fitness suite, and a wellness centre.
Bungee Trampoline

This is great fun for kids and young adults (up to 80kg). Safely strapped into a harness you can jump high on the trampoline and even learn some tricks.