Tour de Chartreuse: Four Passes Loop

This racebike tour is classified as difficult. It involves significant elevation changes, with 2,354 meters of climbing over 76.9 kilometers. The Chartreuse region is known for its challenging, consistently steep climbs, requiring a good to very good fitness level.

The terrain is predominantly mountainous, featuring numerous steep ascents and descents. Roads are generally paved, but some sections, particularly on climbs like the Col du Coq, may have poorer conditions. Expect long, demanding climbs with gradients often reaching 9% or more.

The best time to undertake this racebike tour is typically from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally more favorable for cycling, and the mountain passes are clear of snow.

No, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required for road cycling within the Parc Naturel Régional de la Chartreuse. It is a regional natural park, open for public enjoyment, but always respect local regulations and private property.

While the tour doesn't specify a single starting point, the Chartreuse massif is a classic destination for cyclists from Grenoble and Chambéry. You can typically find parking in towns or villages at the base of the climbs, such as those near the start of the tour, to begin your ride.

This tour takes you through some iconic Chartreuse locations. You'll pass over several mountain passes including Col du Cucheron, Granier Pass, Marcieu Pass, and the challenging Col du Coq. You'll also ride through the scenic Gorges du Cozon and near the settlement of Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet, which offers incredible vistas.

This specific tour is designed for racebiking on roads, which is generally not suitable for dogs. While the Parc Naturel Régional de la Chartreuse allows dogs in many areas, they should be kept on a leash. For road cycling, it's best to leave your canine companions at home or opt for dedicated walking trails.

You'll be treated to stunning and varied scenery, including dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and expansive forests of spruce and beech. The routes often pass through picturesque villages, and notable viewpoints, such as from the Col du Coq, offer incredible vistas of the surrounding snow-covered peaks of the Belledonne massif.

Yes, this racebike tour utilizes sections of several recognized routes. You will find yourself on parts of the Sur les pas des Huguenots, P'tites Routes du Soleil, étape 8, Saint-Pierre-d'Entremont / Grenoble, and the Tour de Chartreuse, among others. This allows for a diverse cycling experience, connecting you to a wider network of trails.

The ascent to the Col du Coq is described as very demanding, offering a significant challenge for even experienced cyclists. However, the panoramic views from its summit, especially of the Belledonne massif, are incredibly rewarding. Similarly, the Granier Pass features sections with a 9% incline over nearly 10 kilometers, testing your endurance.

The Chartreuse massif is known for its relatively quiet roads, especially away from major towns. This generally offers a peaceful cycling experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park with less vehicle interference.

While the tour itself is a continuous route, it passes through or near picturesque villages like Saint-Hilaire-du-Touvet. These settlements often provide opportunities to find cafes, restaurants, or small shops where you can refuel and take a break.