Col du Galibier from Valloire

Route overview

Riders prepared for a sustained climb of 18 km with significant elevation gain of 1221 m.

An 18.1 km climb to Col du Galibier from Valloire, France, gaining 1221 m.

Starting from Valloire, the route begins at 1407 m and climbs steadily to Col du Galibier at 2628 m over 18.1 km. It passes through La Borgé, Le Serroz, Les Clots, La Ruaz, Les Verneys, La Rivine, and Bonnenuit early on within the first 5.8 km. The climb averages 6.8% with sections up to 10% gradient, and 57% of the elevation gain occurs in the first half. The surface is mostly paved (97%), with a small 2% gravel/unpaved section. About 86% of the ride is on main roads, predominantly the D 902 for 15.4 km; 1 km has a cycle lane and another 0.7 km is on a path. There are 5.7 km on roads with speed limits over 80 km/h, and 15.6 km on main roads without a cycle lane. Along the route, there is a 6.9 km stretch without a café, shop, or water from 10.1 km to 17 km. At the start, Valloire offers bakeries, cafés, restaurants, a supermarket, and a petrol station 228 m from the route. Water points are available at 0.2 km, 5.6 km, and 10 km, with toilets at 2.9 km and 9.6 km. Restaurants can be found at 5.3 km, 10 km, and near the finish at 17 km.

Highlights

• Col du Galibier summit at 2628 m
• Passing through Valloire and Le Serroz
• 6.8% average incline over 18.1 km
• Longest named road: D 902 for 15.4 km

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

1 h 18 min

Best months

Jun to Sep — daily highs of 17–22 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 6.9 km with no cafe, shop, or water from 10.1 to 17 km
• 15.6 km on main roads without cycle lane
• 5.7 km on roads with speed limits over 80 km/h
• 0.3 km with maximum gradient of 10%

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.