Cycling Routes in Val d'Isere — 3 of Our Favourites

Col du Petit Saint Bernard

Also known as Little St Bernard Pass, this col is one of the more accessible routes with an average gradient of less than 5%. One of the most popular routes, it's ideal for riders looking for a steady, long climb without a brutal gradient.

A beautiful alpine climb, it links Bourg-Saint-Maurice to La Thuile in Italy via gentle gradients, sweeping bends and panoramic views. 

From Val d'Isère via Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Distance: ~60 to 70km one way (120 to 140km return)
Elevation gain: ~1,350m
Average gradient: ~5% (but steeper in sections)

Key features:

• from Bourg-St-Maurice, the climb follows the D1090, beginning gently and winding through alpine pastures and forests
• the route goes through numerous small hamlets and ski resorts, including La Rosière, a great stop off spot
• after La Rosière the route has long, sweeping switchbacks and views of Mont Blanc and the Tarentaise Valley
• at the summit you'll find a large stone column, a food truck or café in summer months 

Tignes loop via Lac du Chevril

This short, yet satisfying ride is big on the views, offering the perfect marriage of effort and enjoyment. An ideal route to do in the morning before lunch back in resort.

From Val d'Isère

Distance: 35 to 40km round trip
Elevation gain: 800 to 900m
Gradient: 6 to 7%
Highest point: Tignes Val Claret (2,100m)
Difficulty: moderate - ideal for intermediate cyclists or a lighter day in the saddle

Route description:

• Val d'Isère to Lac Chevril: descend along D902 with views over Lac du Chevril
• climb to Tignes: after crossing the dam, turn onto D87A that winds up to Tignes Les Brévières, then Tignes 1800, Le Lac and finally Val Claret
• as you pass through the ski villages and forests enjoy the views of waterfalls and cliffs - scenic without being too punishing
• descent is back to Val d'Isère whenever you decide to turn around and head back the way you came
• once back down in Lac du Chevril climb back up to Val, nothing too strenuous with a few steep pitches near the top

Col de l'Iseran 

This col is one of the most famous and challenging road bike climbs in the French Alps. At 2,764m, it is the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps, making it a legendary route for cyclists. It often features as part of a stage in the Tour de France, adding to its prestige among road cycling enthusiasts.

Can be tackled from down in Bourg-Saint-Maurice or from Val d'Isère

From Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Distance: ~48km
Elevation gain: ~1,955m
Average gradient: 4.1% (but steeper in sections)

Key features:

• a long but steady climb with breathtaking views
• passes through Val d’Isère, a famous ski resort (see more below)
• some tunnels and avalanche protection structures
• the final stretch is exposed and can be affected by wind

From Val d'Isère

Distance: ~17km
Elevation gain: ~895m
Average gradient: ~5.3%

Key features:

• starts around 1,850m the route climbs through wide, open landscapes to the summit
• less steep climb, but still exposed with altitude

Tip: ride early in the day to avoid summer storms and bring layers - it's often cold and windy at the top, even in summer