The best road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne

The Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne region offers a vast network of over 240 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate to very difficult, ensuring there's a challenge for every cyclist.

The Maurienne Valley is renowned for its iconic and challenging climbs. You can tackle legendary passes such as the Col du Galibier, known for its demanding ascent and spectacular views, or the Col de la Madeleine, a frequently featured climb in the Tour de France. Another epic option is the Glandon/Croix-de-Fer Circuit, which combines two significant mountain passes for a truly strenuous ride.

While the region is famous for its challenging mountain passes, there are also options for less experienced cyclists. The network includes 38 easy routes, offering gentler gradients and shorter distances. These routes provide a great way to enjoy the stunning alpine scenery without the extreme demands of the major cols.

The best season for road cycling in Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne is typically from late spring to early autumn, generally May through October. During these months, the mountain passes are usually clear of snow, and the weather is more favorable for cycling, offering pleasant temperatures and stunning alpine views.

Road cycling routes in Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne offer exceptional mountain views of the Lauzière massif and the Aiguilles d'Arves. Many passes, like the Col de la Croix de Fer, provide panoramic vistas. You can also find serene spots like high-altitude lakes, such as Lake Cerces, or historical sites like Fort du Télégraphe, which offers commanding views of the valley.

Yes, the region features several excellent circular routes. A popular choice is the Glandon/Croix-de-Fer Circuit, which allows you to experience two major cols in one loop. Another notable option is the Circuit du Chaussy, which includes the famous hairpin bends of Montvernier.

The road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging mountain passes, the well-paved surfaces, and the spectacular alpine landscapes that make every ride memorable.

Absolutely. Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne is a cycling mecca, with an exceptional concentration of famous Tour de France climbs within a 35-kilometer radius. You can ride iconic passes like the Col du Galibier, Col de la Madeleine, and Col de la Croix de Fer, all of which have been featured in the legendary race.

Yes, the region boasts beautiful natural features. While cycling, you might find opportunities to visit nearby high-altitude lakes such as Lake Rosière or Arpettaz Lake. For waterfalls, consider exploring areas that might lead to sights like the Pied de l'Écho Waterfall or the Spectacular Waterfall, though some may require a short detour or hike.

Many routes in the Maurienne Valley offer significant distances and elevation gains, making them suitable for long-distance cycling. For example, the Col du Galibier route is over 70 km, and the Col de l'Iseran: South Climb from Val Cenis also offers a substantial distance and climb, leading to the highest paved pass in the Alps.

While specific parking details for each route are best checked on individual komoot tour pages, Saint-Jean-De-Maurienne, as a central hub, offers various parking options within the town. Many routes start directly from or near the town center, making it convenient to park and begin your ride. For more general information about the area, you can visit the local tourism office website: maurienne-tourisme.com.

Beyond road cycling, the Maurienne Valley is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking and snowshoeing trails, thrilling via ferrata routes (like at Fort du Télégraphe or Cascade de la Fare), adventure courses with zip lines, paragliding, and climbing. High-altitude lakes also offer refreshing breaks and water activities.