4.7
(194)
11,614
riders
112
rides
Touring cycling routes around Montvalezan are situated in the Haute-Tarentaise massif, within the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The area features significant Alpine passes, including the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard, and offers access to high mountain roads. The terrain presents dramatic mountain scenery, with routes traversing valleys and ascending towards peaks, providing varied elevation profiles. Montvalezan's location provides views of the Mont Blanc massif and Mont Pourri.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
4.3
(7)
272
riders
39.0km
03:03
1,050m
1,050m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
78
riders
18.0km
02:01
660m
660m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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64
riders
23.8km
01:49
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
126
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
317
riders
32.9km
02:23
750m
750m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A great Aosta Valley classic; the climb itself isn't particularly difficult, but be careful not to underestimate the wind that often blows strongly from France, making the 12 km from La Thuile to the pass much more challenging than the steepness suggests. The landscape is beautiful and evocative: from the iconic eight hairpin bends that allow you to leave Pré-Saint-Didier behind, you enter the cool valley that leads to La Thuile. After passing the ski resort, you quickly gain altitude with long straights, then enter the forest and conclude the climb in a vast alpine meadow.
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The Forte della Ridotta della Traversette is located at 2400 m in a dominant position on the French side of the Colle del Piccolo San Bernardo. A fort already existed in the seventeenth century when Savoy and Valle d'Aosta were united in the possessions of the House of Savoy. The transfer of the royal seat from Chambéry to Turin transformed what is now Haute-Savoie into a province of secondary importance and at the end of the century fortifications began to be built on the border of the territories of the Savoy, separating regions that until then had shared the same traditions, culture, religion and language. The current fort was built in 1891 on the ruins of the old fort destroyed during the French Revolution, taking advantage of its strategic position for the military surveillance of the national borders. Initially it was occupied only in the summer period and later throughout the year to train the troops in the difficult mountain conditions. In the 1930s, the fort was equipped with shooting ranges, radio equipment, and equipment for the troops and their supplies in response to the great defensive project, the Alpine Wall, desired by Mussolini. On June 10, 1940, Italy declared war on France and began a massive mobilization on the borders. On June 21, an air and ground attack kept the brave soldiers stationed at the fort, led by Lieutenant Desserteaux, busy for 4 days. The fort was occupied by Italian troops, then German ones, and liberated after fierce fighting in April 1945. Today, in ruins, it is located directly on the slopes of the Piccolo San Bernardo International ski area that connects the resorts of La Thuile in the Aosta Valley and La Rosière in Haute-Savoie.
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The pink roads lead to the station... But their gradient is rather full-bodied red.
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Don't hesitate to go to the Italian side: the coffee is much better.
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Beautiful stature with view of the valley
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Great view over Auvernge-Rhône-Alps
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Great for identifying mountains
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Great view from the parking lot
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There are 11 touring cycling routes documented around Montvalezan on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are primarily characterized by challenging Alpine passes and dramatic mountain scenery.
The touring cycling routes around Montvalezan are generally challenging due to the Alpine terrain. You'll find 3 moderate routes and 8 difficult routes, making it an ideal destination for experienced cyclists seeking significant elevation gains and demanding rides.
Yes, many of the routes around Montvalezan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Col de la Traversette – Ridge Path loop from Montvalezan is a challenging circular route, and the Ascent to La Rosière loop from Montvalezan offers a moderate circular option.
Montvalezan offers incredible panoramic views, including the majestic Mont Blanc massif and Mont Pourri. Routes often traverse high Alpine passes like the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard, providing stunning vistas into Italy. The Große Sicht übers Tal – Ascent to La Rosière loop from Montvalezan is known for its great valley views.
While Montvalezan is known for its challenging Alpine terrain, the La Rosière resort, part of Montvalezan, does promote routes suitable for various levels. However, the documented touring cycling routes on komoot are predominantly moderate to difficult, with no easy routes specifically listed for touring cyclists. Families might find more suitable options for general cycling within the resort area itself, rather than the longer touring routes.
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can encounter impressive mountain passes like the Col du Petit Saint Bernard (2188 m), and historical sites such as The Mauritian hospice of the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard. Further afield, you might find natural monuments like Rutor’s First Waterfall or Lac du Verney, though these may require slight detours from the main touring routes.
The best time for touring cycling in Montvalezan is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more favorable weather conditions and ensures that high Alpine passes, which can be snow-covered, are open and accessible. Summer provides lush green pastures and wildflowers, enhancing the scenic experience.
Yes, the area around La Rosière, which is part of Montvalezan, provides essential services for touring cyclists. You can find bike rental and repair shops, as well as accommodations that offer secure bike storage facilities, making it convenient for multi-day tours.
The touring cycling routes around Montvalezan are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging Alpine passes, the dramatic mountain scenery, and the panoramic views of iconic peaks like Mont Blanc.
While specific public transport options for bikes can vary by season and service, the Haute-Tarentaise valley, where Montvalezan is located, generally has regional bus services. It's advisable to check with local transport providers in advance regarding their policies for carrying bicycles, especially for larger touring bikes, as space can be limited.
Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on public roads in the Montvalezan area. However, if your route takes you into or near protected areas like the Vanoise National Park, it's important to be aware of and respect park regulations, which may include restrictions on off-road cycling or specific trails. Always stay on marked paths and roads.
Montvalezan and the La Rosière resort offer various parking options. You can typically find public parking areas within the villages and near key starting points for routes. It's recommended to look for designated parking in La Rosière or the larger hamlets, which often have facilities for visitors.
Yes, as you cycle through the traditional Savoyard hamlets and villages that make up Montvalezan, or pass through the La Rosière resort, you'll find opportunities for cafes, restaurants, and small shops. These provide convenient stops for refreshments and to refuel during your touring cycling adventures.


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