Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards are primarily characterized by their alpine mountain passes and scenic routes. The region is situated in the French Alps, offering a landscape dominated by significant climbs and panoramic views. This area is known for its challenging cycling routes and opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
- The most popular attractions is Montvernier Hairpins, a climb that features 18 tight hairpin bends over a short distance. This section…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Montvernier Hairpins
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Chalet at Col du Glandon
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Col de la Croix de Fer
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Mollard Pass
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Col du Mollard - Yawing paradise
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Popular around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Écrins, Belledonne and Vercors – HexaTrek, Hautes-Alpes
Hiking around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Cycling around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Running Trails around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Mountain Hikes around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
MTB Trails around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Gravel biking around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Other adventures around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
Tips from the Community
The views at the top of this pass are definitely worth the detour 👍
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Bring gear for the descent to protect against the cold or rain, as was the case for me on the descent from the Croix de Fer. And above all, refill your water bottles in St. Jean de Maurienne because there's no water left before Saint-Sorlin-d'Arves (at least I didn't see any water points) and the climb is very long, about 30 km, to reach the Croix de Fer!
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It's worth taking a break here.
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The Col de la Croix de Fer culminates at an altitude of 2063 meters. It is the big neighbor of the Col du Glandon, another crossing point between the Maurienne and Oisans valleys. The Tour de France has used this pass 21 times. It is one of the most beautiful in France, a must-visit point for any mountain-loving cyclist!
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You literally lose count of the tornanti you overcome. The best (or worst, depending on how you look at it) is the total coverage by trees and vegetation. On hot days it is appreciated. The absence of views makes it tougher mentally. When this stretch of tornanti is overcome, we also leave the forest behind and see the Arves massif in its splendor.
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From the hill, if we exclude the overbuilding that has also affected this area, one can enjoy a splendid panorama of the nearby peaks and in particular of the Aiguilles d'Arves, which are in a way the symbol of the entire area. From the pass, if you continue, you descend towards St. Sorlin d'Arves and join up with the road which, starting from St. Jean de Maurienne, continues towards the pass of the Croix de Fer. I preferred to go back towards Albiez to descend directly to St Jean, avoiding the tunnels that I would have had to go through when descending from St Sorlin.
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Beautiful these laces, To go uphill the road is bumpy it's quite dangerous downhill
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of outdoor activities are popular around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards?
The region is renowned for its challenging cycling routes, particularly over its many mountain passes. Beyond cycling, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including mountain hiking, mountain biking, and running on scenic trails.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards?
For breathtaking views, head to Mollard Pass, which offers stunning vistas of the jagged Aiguilles d'Arves. Another excellent spot is the Col de la Croix de Fer, where you can admire the Arves needles and the Etendard peak.
Are there challenging cycling routes in the area?
Yes, Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards is a prime destination for challenging cycling. The Montvernier Hairpins, with its 18 tight bends, is a famous climb featured multiple times in the Tour de France. The Col de la Croix de Fer is another iconic and demanding alpine pass.
What makes the Montvernier Hairpins a notable attraction?
The Montvernier Hairpins are famous for their unique design: 18 tight hairpin bends packed into a short 2.32 km climb with an average slope of 8.1%. It's a visually striking and challenging section that has been part of the Tour de France.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards for outdoor activities?
The summer months (June to September) are ideal for cycling, hiking, and mountain biking, as the mountain passes are clear of snow and the weather is generally favorable. For winter sports, the season typically runs from December to April, offering opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing in the wider region.
Where can I find refreshments or rest stops during my outdoor excursions?
A convenient stop is the Chalet at Col du Glandon. This location offers coffee and food, serving as a welcome rest point for those traversing the Glandon pass. The Col de la Croix de Fer also has a warm and welcoming hostel at the summit where you can rehydrate and regain strength.
Are there any quiet or 'hidden gem' routes to explore?
The Mollard Pass is often considered a hidden gem, especially when approached from Villargondran. It features countless hairpin bends through forested areas on a very quiet road, offering tranquility and idyllic scenery away from main routes.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards?
Yes, the area offers several mountain biking trails. You can explore routes like the 'View of Mont-Blanc – Col du Glandon loop from Saint-Colomban-des-Villards' or the 'L'Ouillon – Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne loop from Col du Glandon'. More options can be found in the MTB Trails around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the Mollard Pass?
Visitors appreciate the Mollard Pass for its stunning views of the Aiguilles d'Arves and its quiet, less-trafficked routes. Cyclists particularly enjoy the numerous hairpin bends through forested areas and the moderate gradient, making it a pleasant climb.
Can I find circular walking routes near Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards?
Yes, there are several circular walking routes available. For example, you can find the 'Col de la Croix de Fer (Iron Cross Pass) loop from Col de la Croix-de-Fer' or the 'Retenue de la Chal loop from Saint-Colomban-des-Villards'. For more options, consult the Mountain Hikes around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards guide.
Is parking available at the major passes like Col de la Croix de Fer?
Yes, parking is available at the Col de la Croix de Fer. This makes it convenient for visitors who wish to start hikes or simply enjoy the views from the summit.
Are there any specific running trails in the area?
Yes, the region offers various running trails. Notable options include the 'Retenue de la Chal loop from Saint-Colomban-des-Villards' (moderate difficulty) and more challenging routes like the 'Grand Lac Bramant – Col Nord des Lacs loop'. You can find detailed information in the Running Trails around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards guide.
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Most popular attractions around Saint-Colomban-Des-Villards
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