Col d'Izoard
A legendary Tour de France pass with dramatic landscapes, including the unique Casse Déserte and stunning alpine panoramas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Col d'Izoard
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Tour de France pass with dramatic landscapes, including the unique Casse Déserte and stunning alpine panoramas.
"Breathtaking views and an otherworldly landscape make this a must-visit alpine pass."
📸 Capture Your Climb
Photographers often capture cyclists on the ascent; purchase a memorable shot of your achievement!
💧 Stay Hydrated
A drinking fountain is available on the climb, a welcome sight for cyclists.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Casse Déserte
Southern approach to the pass
An otherworldly landscape of weathered rock formations, a stark contrast to the surrounding greenery.
Tour de France Route
The entire pass
Experience the thrill of cycling a legendary Tour de France stage, with photographers capturing your achievement .
+1
Summit Views
Top of the pass (2,360m)
Panoramic vistas of the Alps, with opportunities for stargazing on clear nights .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Essential Gear & Prep
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture Your Climb
Photographers often capture cyclists on the ascent; purchase a memorable shot of your achievement!
💧 Stay Hydrated
A drinking fountain is available on the climb, a welcome sight for cyclists.
☁️ Seek Shelter
A covered area at the top offers respite from sun or rain.
🌌 Night Sky Magic
Experience incredible stargazing from the summit on clear nights.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture Your Climb
Photographers often capture cyclists on the ascent; purchase a memorable shot of your achievement!
💧 Stay Hydrated
A drinking fountain is available on the climb, a welcome sight for cyclists.
☁️ Seek Shelter
A covered area at the top offers respite from sun or rain.
🌌 Night Sky Magic
Experience incredible stargazing from the summit on clear nights.
⚠️ Watch for Speeders
Be aware of other vehicles, including motorcycles, on this scenic route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking alpine scenery and the unique geological formations of the Casse Déserte. It's a celebrated route for cyclists, with photographers capturing memorable moments. While the summit offers basic amenities, the true draw is the stunning natural beauty and the experience of traversing a legendary mountain pass.
"Beautiful climb for cyclists with a drinking fountain, an area to hang out with a roof, so you don't get sunburn or wet and there are photographers on the climb, where you can purchase a photo of yourself whilst climbing.
On top of the mountain is a tiny store with decoration, food, drinks and a bathroom."
Thomas Stibenz
"This is simply THE WORST CAMPSITE IN ALL OF FRANCE.
I'd reccomend every tourist or person visiting this region to keep on driving, don't stop, don't visit and certainly don't camp here!!!
It may be the new facilities that looked luxurious, well thought out and integrated into the landscape so well we almost missed them.
Talking about the landscape, I'd avoid this at all cost... breathtaking views, of mountains green hills and bright blue sky make for views unlike anything you have seen before, I prefer a basement in queens with my video games buried under smog and rain.
The campsites are well thought out with increadible views and good facilities. You have about 4 platform to choose from and about 2 benches that you can just sleep on with a nigh bag.
I'd strongly discourage anyone from stopping here as the beauty and uniqueness should only be know by a select few..."
Stephan Lukac
"Visited on a long drive from Briançon to Menton."
Tim Austin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Col d'Izoard is accessible by car and is a popular route for cyclists. It's part of the Route des Grandes Alpes.
The pass is typically open from late May/early June to October, depending on snow conditions. Always check local road status before your visit, especially outside of peak summer.
Many visitors enjoy cycling the pass, as it's a famous Tour de France route.
Col d'Izoard is a key point on the Route des Grandes Alpes, a famous scenic drive through the French Alps.
Briançon is the closest major town to the north, and Guillestre is to the south.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Col d'Izoard. It's a public mountain pass.
The pass is an open road and doesn't have set opening hours. However, it can be impassable due to snow in winter and spring.
Parking is generally free at designated areas along the pass and at the summit.
There's no need to book anything for simply visiting the pass. If you plan to camp nearby, booking might be advisable during peak season.
Standard road regulations apply. Large RVs or trailers might find some of the narrower sections challenging.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you'll find breathtaking panoramic views, a small store selling souvenirs and refreshments, and a covered area for shelter.
Absolutely! The Casse Déserte is a unique landscape for photos, and the summit offers stunning alpine vistas. Photographers also capture cyclists on the climb.
Yes, families can enjoy the scenic drive and the unique landscape of the Casse Déserte. The summit area is accessible for short walks.
While not guaranteed, you might spot alpine marmots or various bird species in the surrounding natural habitat.
The Casse Déserte is a striking geological formation on the southern side of the pass, characterized by barren, eroded rock spires.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small store at the summit that offers drinks and snacks. For a wider selection, plan to eat in Briançon or Guillestre.
Yes, there are several scenic spots where you can enjoy a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Yes, a drinking fountain is available on the climb, and the summit store sells beverages.
The store typically offers basic snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
Briançon and Guillestre offer a variety of restaurants and cafes with local cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The Casse Déserte offers dramatic landscapes, while the summit provides sweeping alpine panoramas. Don't miss capturing cyclists on the iconic route.
Early morning and late afternoon offer beautiful light, with golden hour casting a warm glow over the mountains.
Yes, photographers are often present on the climb to capture cyclists, and you can purchase these photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant peaks or details. A drone can offer unique aerial perspectives.
While specific tours might be rare, local guides or photography enthusiasts might offer personalized experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At the summit, there's a small store for treats and a covered area for a rest. While the climb is challenging for cyclists, families can enjoy shorter walks around the summit area. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to the small summit store.
🚴 Cyclists
+1Be prepared for potential headwinds and variable weather. Photographers often capture cyclists on the climb, offering a unique souvenir of your achievement.
Ensure your bike is in excellent condition and carry plenty of water and energy food. +1🚗 Road Trippers
+1Take your time to stop at various viewpoints, especially at the summit, to soak in the panoramic alpine vistas. The summit store provides a convenient spot for a quick break. Remember to check road conditions, as the pass can be closed due to snow outside of the summer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Col d'Izoard
Be prepared for varying weather conditions, even in summer. Strong headwinds can make the climb significantly tougher, as one cyclist noted.
For those seeking a true cycling challenge, the Col d'Izoard is a must-do. It's not just about the physical exertion, but also about experiencing a piece of cycling history and soaking in the magnificent alpine scenery. Remember to carry water, snacks, and appropriate gear for changing mountain weather.
+2The Unique Landscape of Casse Déserte
This unique geological feature has even inspired artists and filmmakers. The barren, rocky terrain creates an otherworldly atmosphere, making it a memorable part of the journey over the pass. It’s a place that truly feels like a different planet, offering a moment of awe and reflection amidst the grandeur of the Alps.
Whether you're driving or cycling, take a moment to stop and appreciate the raw, natural beauty of the Casse Déserte. It’s a testament to the powerful forces of nature and a photographer's dream.
Experiencing the Summit
For those who stay after dark, the summit offers an incredible opportunity for stargazing. Far from city lights, the night sky is exceptionally clear, allowing you to witness the Milky Way in all its glory. Waking up to the sunrise over the peaks is also a magical experience, as described by visitors.
It's a place to pause, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and appreciate the vastness of the alpine landscape. Whether you're a cyclist celebrating a hard-won ascent or a traveler enjoying a scenic drive, the summit of Col d'Izoard provides a memorable conclusion to your journey over the pass.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit