The best road cycling routes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice

There are over 40 road cycling routes around Bourg-Saint-Maurice, offering a diverse range of experiences from challenging mountain passes to more moderate valley loops. The komoot community has explored these routes over 12,000 times.

Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a gateway to some of the most iconic and challenging climbs in the French Alps. Notable difficult routes include the Route des Grandes Alpes: Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Col de l'Iseran, which features an ascent of over 2,500 meters to the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps. Another demanding option is the Col du Petit-Saint-Bernard — from Bourg-Saint-Maurice, with a significant elevation gain of over 1,500 meters.

Yes, while the region is known for its challenging climbs, there are also more accessible options. The Tarentaise valley — loop from Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a moderate 32.3 km trail with an elevation gain of 670 meters, offering a less strenuous ride through the valley. There are 12 easy routes available in total.

Road cycling around Bourg-Saint-Maurice offers breathtaking Alpine scenery. You'll traverse majestic mountain ranges like Beaufortain and Vanoise National Park, encounter iconic peaks, and pass by stunning lakes and dams such as Roselend Lake. The region is also home to fast-flowing rivers and numerous waterfalls, including the Rutor Waterfalls and Combe Noire Waterfall.

The best time for road cycling in Bourg-Saint-Maurice is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (June to September), when the high mountain passes are clear of snow and weather conditions are generally favorable. This period offers the most accessible routes and pleasant temperatures for cycling.

Yes, the region offers several circular routes. A popular option is the Tarentaise valley — loop from Bourg-Saint-Maurice. For a more challenging loop, consider the Towards Cormet de Roselend – Serpentine Route loop from Montrigon, which includes around ten demanding hairpins.

The routes in Bourg-Saint-Maurice are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region for its diverse terrain, from high Alpine passes to scenic valley roads, and the stunning views of the Vanoise Range and other mountain landscapes.

Bourg-Saint-Maurice is well-connected and serves as a hub for the Tarentaise Valley. While specific public transport options directly to route starting points may vary, the town itself has a funicular railway that transports hikers and mountain bikers to Les Arcs, and regional transport can help access various parts of the valley.

While cycling on designated roads and trails is generally permitted, specific regulations may apply within protected areas like the Vanoise National Park. It's always advisable to check local guidelines or the park's official website for any specific permits or restrictions, especially if planning to venture off main roads.

Bourg-Saint-Maurice, being a central town and gateway to the Alps, offers various parking facilities. You can typically find public parking areas within the town center or near major transport hubs, which can serve as convenient starting points for many road cycling routes.

Absolutely. Bourg-Saint-Maurice is a key segment of the epic Route des Grandes Alpes, which offers extensive point-to-point cycling opportunities across the French Alps. This allows for multi-day adventures, connecting various iconic passes and regions.

The region around Bourg-Saint-Maurice is dotted with charming villages and mountain resorts like Val d'Isère and Les Arcs, offering numerous opportunities for refreshment stops, cafes, and accommodation. You'll also find traditional Savoie villages where you can experience local culture and cuisine, including famous Beaufort cheese.