Col de l'Iseran
The Alps' highest paved mountain pass (2770m), a legendary cycling and motorcycling route with breathtaking panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Col de l'Iseran
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Alps' highest paved mountain pass (2770m), a legendary cycling and motorcycling route with breathtaking panoramic views.
"The ride up to Col de l'Iseran is well worth it, whether from the Val d'Isere side og Bonneval-sur-Arc."
Pack Layers! 🧥
Temperatures can change rapidly. Bring warm clothing, even in summer.
Check Road Status 🛣️
The pass is seasonal. Always verify it's open before you plan your trip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Summit Panorama
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree views of the Alps. The highest paved pass in the Alps offers unparalleled vistas.
Iconic Cycling Challenge
The entire pass
A legendary climb for cyclists, featured in the Tour de France. Feel the burn and the glory!
Motorcycle Paradise
The entire pass
Twisting roads and stunning scenery make it a dream route for motorcyclists.
Charming Alpine Towns
Val d'Isère and Bonneval-sur-Arc
Explore picturesque villages at the base of the pass for a taste of local life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Altitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Layers! 🧥
Temperatures can change rapidly. Bring warm clothing, even in summer.
Check Road Status 🛣️
The pass is seasonal. Always verify it's open before you plan your trip.
Hydrate & Acclimatize 💧
At high altitude, drink plenty of water and take it easy.
Fuel Up Beforehand ⛽
Services at the summit are limited or closed. Fill your tank and pack snacks.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Layers! 🧥
Temperatures can change rapidly. Bring warm clothing, even in summer.
Check Road Status 🛣️
The pass is seasonal. Always verify it's open before you plan your trip.
Hydrate & Acclimatize 💧
At high altitude, drink plenty of water and take it easy.
Fuel Up Beforehand ⛽
Services at the summit are limited or closed. Fill your tank and pack snacks.
Capture the Views :camera:
The scenery is spectacular, but pull over safely to enjoy and photograph.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Col de l'Iseran for its breathtaking alpine scenery and the sheer accomplishment of reaching the highest paved pass in the Alps. It's a legendary route for cyclists and motorcyclists alike, offering unforgettable views. However, some note the limited services at the summit and the challenging nature of the climb.
"A long and painful climb if done by bike. But it is all worth it because the views are the best reward for the hard work."
Jurij Guna
"Beautiful views unfortunately there was no shop or restaurant open at the very top as usual."
Malu K
"Nice drive up to the top. However on the top the view is somewhat restricted. There are better places for views during the ascent or descent. There are some great hiking trails most of them arent really suited for beginners. Plenty of parking on the top and also along the way. Nice mountain towns in the area."
Jaap van den Hoff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Col de l'Iseran is accessible by car from both the Tarentaise Valley (via Val d'Isère) and the Maurienne Valley (via Bonneval-sur-Arc). It's a popular route for cyclists and motorcyclists.
No, the pass is typically closed during winter due to heavy snowfall, usually from October/November to May/June. Always check local road conditions before planning your visit.
Public transport options directly to the summit are very limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle (car, motorcycle) or bicycle.
The closest towns are Val d'Isère on the northern side and Bonneval-sur-Arc on the southern side, both offering amenities and accommodation.
The road is paved and generally well-maintained, making it suitable for cars and motorcycles. Cyclists should be prepared for a challenging climb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to drive or cycle over the Col de l'Iseran. It's a public mountain pass.
The pass is open to traffic when road conditions permit, typically from late May/early June to October. There are no set 'opening hours' as it's an outdoor road.
The main restriction is seasonal closure due to snow. During the open season, standard road rules apply. Be mindful of cyclists and motorcyclists.
Parking at the summit is generally free, though it can get busy during peak season. There are also parking areas along the route.
While there aren't official 'tickets' for the pass itself, many guided cycling tours and road trip packages include a visit to the Col de l'Iseran.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy the panoramic views, take photos, and soak in the accomplishment of reaching the highest paved pass in the Alps. There are also hiking trails nearby.
Services at the summit are very limited and often closed, especially outside peak season. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks.
Many visitors enjoy driving or cycling the pass. The views are spectacular from both directions, with different perspectives on the ascent and descent.
Yes, there are hiking trails around the summit area, offering further exploration of the alpine landscape. Some are challenging and not for beginners.
Expect stunning mountain vistas, winding roads, and opportunities for dramatic landscape shots. Capture the scale of the Alps and the journey.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most expansive views. Also, look for scenic pull-offs during your ascent or descent to capture the winding roads and dramatic mountain backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) provides the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Capture the iconic road as it snakes through the mountains, cyclists tackling the climb, or motorcyclists enjoying the ride. The changing weather can also create dramatic photo moments.
Be mindful of the weather, which can change rapidly. Ensure you have appropriate protection for your gear. Also, be aware of traffic and pull over safely.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴 Cyclists
🏍️ Motorcyclists
Remember to check road conditions, especially outside of mid-summer, and be mindful of cyclists and other traffic. The high altitude can mean cooler temperatures, so pack accordingly. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Col de l'Iseran
When planning your col de l'Iseran cycling trip, remember that the road is paved but can be busy with other vehicles, especially on weekends. It's crucial to be visible and ride defensively. The air is thin at this altitude, so proper hydration and pacing are key. Many cyclists recommend visiting outside of the peak summer months of July and August to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful ride.
For those looking for the ultimate col de l'Iseran climb by bike challenge, consider tackling it from both directions if time and energy permit. The scenery changes dramatically, offering new perspectives on the Alps. Remember to pack layers, as temperatures can be surprisingly cold at the summit, even on a sunny day.
Motorcycling the Col de l'Iseran
Motorcyclists often highlight the col de l'Iseran photo moto opportunities, with numerous scenic spots to pull over and capture the dramatic mountain landscapes. The pass connects charming alpine towns like Val d'Isère and Bonneval-sur-Arc, making it part of a larger, scenic road trip. Riders should be aware of cyclists sharing the road, especially during peak season, and exercise caution.
Similar to cyclists, motorcyclists benefit from visiting during the shoulder seasons (June or September) to experience fewer crowds and potentially better riding conditions. Always check the road status before heading out, as winter closures are common. The high altitude means cooler temperatures, so packing appropriate riding gear is essential.
The Col de l'Iseran Experience
Visitors often remark on the stunning, expansive views from the summit, describing them as 'the best reward for the hard work.' However, some reviews note that services at the very top can be limited or closed, so it's wise to be prepared with provisions. The surrounding area also offers hiking trails, providing opportunities for further exploration beyond the immediate summit.
For those planning a visit, timing is crucial. The pass is only accessible during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn. Avoiding the peak summer crowds by visiting in June or September can lead to a more tranquil and enjoyable experience, allowing for better appreciation of the majestic alpine environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit