Col du Granon - Image 1
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Col du Granon

4.8
·320 reviews·Val-des-Prés, France

A remote, high alpine pass offering breathtaking panoramic views and a legendary cycling challenge, steeped in Tour de France history.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, less wind

CrowdLow
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Col du Granon - Image 1

Col du Granon

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, less wind

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A remote, high alpine pass offering breathtaking panoramic views and a legendary cycling challenge, steeped in Tour de France history.

4.8
(320 reviews)

"Truly remote and non-touristy, offering fantastic views and a challenging ride."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Road Status First

Roads can close due to snow. Always check local conditions before heading up!

Dress in Layers

It's windy and cold even in summer. Pack warm clothing and rain gear.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Summit View

The Summit View

Col du Granon summit

Breathtaking panoramic views of the French and Italian Alps. A truly rewarding vista.

Tour de France Legacy

Tour de France Legacy

Various points along the ascent

Relive iconic Tour de France moments, especially the legendary 2022 stage. Feel the history.

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Beyond the pass

Explore gravel roads and walking paths in a former military training zone. Discover the rugged landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Ascent

The Col du Granon is a seasonal destination, typically open from late May/early June to October, depending on snow conditions. Check local road status before you go, especially if planning an early or late season visit. The road can be challenging, so be prepared for steep gradients and winding turns.

Prepare for the Elements

This high mountain pass is known for its unpredictable weather. Even in summer, expect strong winds and cooler temperatures. Pack layers, including waterproofs, and be ready for sun, rain, or even snow. The remote nature means services are limited, so bring essentials like water and snacks.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer skies, less wind
Crowd
Low
When
Late June to early September
Why
Roads usually fully open
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🟢 Le col du Granon est ouvert ! Le col du Granon a ouvert jusqu’au sommet. Tous les cols de la vallée sont donc ouverts ! Le Peloton de tête est déjà en route vers le sommet 🐑🐑 L’occasion de vous rappeler les dates des cols réservés et de la Tournée des Grands Cols : Tournée des grands cols : Du 4 au 9 juillet, 1 semaine, 5 cols réservés Granon : 5 - 17 juillet / 7 août / 24 - 31 octobre ...
serrechevalier
1.2K likes • 35K views

Check Road Status First

Roads can close due to snow. Always check local conditions before heading up! Instagram

Dress in Layers

It's windy and cold even in summer. Pack warm clothing and rain gear. Reddit

3 years ago, Jonas Vingegaard took the yellow jersey and won the legendary stage to the Col du Granon 🥹 #vingegaard #granon #legend #legendary #stage #france #tdf22 #col #pogacar #fringale #goats #visma #jumbovisma #stage #albertville #bike #attack #beyondvictory #nike #lotto #nljumbo #plugge #niermann
502watts
940 likes • 11.1K views
Col Du Granon ✅ No caption needed ⛰️ #tourdefrance #coldugranon #cycling #gravel #bike #gravelerscc #outdoorlife #france #bestplacestogo #justforfun
poison_margy
192 likes • 4.1K views

Bring Snacks & Water

Services are scarce. Pack your own provisions for a picnic or longer hikes. Reddit

Cycle with Caution

Steep gradients and winding roads. Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding ride. Instagram

Col du galibier & Col de granon ⛰ . . . 🎥 @fietsbenen #cycling #cyclinggirl #womenonbikes #cyclingwomen #ridelikeagirl #rideBiehler #empoweringchange #blrsyn #thebrandofcycling #fromwhereiride #ridetonowhere #lifebehindbars #meridareacto #meridabikes #meridareacto8000edisc #fulcrum #garmin #garmincycling #thatswhyweride #rawmagazine #rideamongthegiants
_de_by
11.2K likes • 186K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Road Status First

Roads can close due to snow. Always check local conditions before heading up! Instagram

Dress in Layers

It's windy and cold even in summer. Pack warm clothing and rain gear. Reddit

Bring Snacks & Water

Services are scarce. Pack your own provisions for a picnic or longer hikes. Reddit

Cycle with Caution

Steep gradients and winding roads. Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding ride. Instagram

Embrace the Quiet

It's remote and not touristy, perfect for a peaceful escape. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(320 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Col du Granon for its stunning, remote beauty and lack of tourist crowds, making it ideal for peaceful picnics and walks. The challenging cycling route and its Tour de France legacy are major draws. However, the long, winding drive and unpredictable, often cold and windy weather require careful preparation.

"Not touristy at all as it is off the beaten track. Really nice quiet place for a picnic and family walk. Fantastic day out.
Worth the really long drive up. You can of course always cycle..."

Rukhsana Bhatti

"Easy access from Briancon - did this clim 2 times when i was there"

Iqmal B.

"Very remote place, not easy to get there. Great views. Windy. Cold. Make sure you are prepared."

Krzys

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Remote and peaceful atmosphere
Challenging cycling climb

What People Dislike

Long and winding drive
Unpredictable weather
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common access is via a steep, winding tarmac road from Briançon. For cyclists, it's a challenging climb. Gravel roads also extend beyond the pass, but these are in a military zone and may have restricted access. Reddit

Yes, a narrow tarmac road leads to the summit. However, it's a demanding drive with many hairpin turns. Be prepared for a slow ascent. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a legendary climb for cyclists, famously featured in the Tour de France. Be ready for significant elevation gain and steep sections. Instagram+1

The road is narrow and steep, with numerous switchbacks. It's well-maintained tarmac for much of the way, but can be challenging for inexperienced drivers or cyclists. Instagram

Public transport options are very limited, if available at all. It's best to travel by car or bicycle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Col du Granon itself. It's a natural mountain pass. Reddit

The pass is generally open from late May or early June until October, weather permitting. It's crucial to check local road conditions as it can close due to snow. Instagram

Summer mornings offer clearer views and less wind. Late June to early September is ideal when the roads are typically fully open. Reddit

The area beyond the pass is a military training zone, so be aware of any signage and restrictions. Stick to marked paths. Reddit

No, the pass is usually closed in winter due to heavy snowfall and avalanche risk. Access is typically limited to the warmer months. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views, have a picnic, and explore the hiking trails. It's also a significant site for cycling history. InstagramReddit

Yes, gravel roads and walking paths extend beyond the pass, offering opportunities for exploration in the surrounding mountainous terrain. Reddit

It's a quiet, non-touristy spot perfect for a picnic and a family walk. The views are impressive for all ages. Reddit

Expect it to be windy and cold, even in summer. Be prepared for rapid weather changes, including sun, rain, and potentially snow. Reddit

Facilities are very limited. It's a remote mountain pass, so come prepared with your own food, water, and any other necessities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible 360-degree views. Capture the winding road, the vast alpine landscape, and any lingering snow patches. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and dramatic shadows. However, clear midday skies offer the best visibility for panoramic shots. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for longer exposures. Instagram

Capture the cycling history by framing shots of the road with the iconic mountain backdrop, especially if you see cyclists. Instagram+1

Be mindful of the weather; conditions can change quickly. Protect your gear from wind and potential rain. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Col du Granon offers a unique and peaceful outing for families looking to escape the usual tourist crowds. Its remote and quiet nature makes it ideal for a family picnic with breathtaking mountain views. The relatively easy walking paths beyond the pass allow for short, enjoyable explorations suitable for children. Reddit

While the drive up is steep and winding, it can be an adventure in itself. The key is to come prepared with snacks, drinks, and appropriate clothing, as services are minimal. The sense of being high up in the mountains and the vastness of the landscape can be awe-inspiring for younger visitors. It's a chance for a memorable day out surrounded by nature's grandeur. Reddit

🚴 Cyclists Seeking a Challenge

For dedicated cyclists, the Col du Granon is a pilgrimage. It's a legendary climb, famous for its inclusion in the Tour de France, offering a significant physical challenge with steep gradients and numerous switchbacks. The ascent from Briançon is a true test of endurance and climbing prowess. Instagram+2

Conquering the Granon is a badge of honor for many amateur cyclists. The reward is not just the accomplishment but also the incredible panoramic views from the summit. Be sure to have well-maintained gear, ample water, and energy-boosting snacks. The descent can be just as demanding as the climb, so ride with caution and enjoy the spectacular alpine scenery. Instagram

🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers

While not a traditional hiking destination with extensive trail networks, the Col du Granon provides opportunities for exploration for nature lovers. The gravel roads and paths beyond the pass offer a chance to wander through the high alpine environment, enjoying the solitude and the expansive views. Reddit

These routes are less about challenging treks and more about immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of the mountains. It's a place to appreciate the quiet, the clean air, and the dramatic landscapes. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as this is a remote mountain environment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cycling the Legendary Climb

The Col du Granon is etched into cycling folklore, most notably for the dramatic 11th stage of the 2022 Tour de France. This stage saw Jonas Vingegaard seize the yellow jersey from Tadej Pogačar in an epic battle. The climb itself is a formidable challenge, characterized by its steep gradients and relentless switchbacks. Cyclists often describe it as one of the toughest climbs they've ever tackled, with significant elevation gain over a relatively short distance. Instagram+2

For those planning to cycle, preparation is key. The road surface is generally good tarmac, but it's narrow and winding, requiring constant attention. The altitude can also play a factor, so acclimatization is recommended if possible. Many cyclists aim to conquer the Granon as a personal achievement, inspired by the professional riders who have battled its slopes. The feeling of reaching the summit after such a strenuous effort is incredibly rewarding. Instagram

Beyond the physical challenge, the Col du Granon offers a unique experience. The remoteness and lack of commercialization mean you can truly immerse yourself in the mountain environment. It's a place where you can feel the history of the Tour de France and appreciate the raw beauty of the Alps. Remember to carry plenty of water and snacks, as services are non-existent at the summit. Reddit

Exploring the High Alpine Landscape

The Col du Granon is more than just a cycling challenge; it's a gateway to a rugged and beautiful high alpine landscape. The summit offers truly spectacular, quasi-360-degree views over the French and Italian western Alps. On a clear day, the vistas are expansive, showcasing a sea of peaks and valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see. This makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or simply to soak in the grandeur of the mountains. Reddit

Beyond the immediate pass, gravel roads continue into what was historically a military training zone. These paths offer opportunities for walking and light hiking, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding terrain. While not heavily developed for tourism, these trails provide a sense of solitude and a chance to connect with the wilder aspects of the Alps. Be aware that this is a remote area, and weather can change rapidly, so always be prepared. Reddit

The remoteness of the Col du Granon is one of its key appeals. It's described as 'not touristy at all' and 'off the beaten track,' offering a genuine escape from crowded attractions. This tranquility, combined with the dramatic scenery, makes it a fantastic destination for those seeking peace and natural beauty. Reddit

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