This route takes in the stunning Lacets de Montvernier, and the beautifully wild Croix de Fer, a lesser-known gem of the region.
Beginning from La Chambre, a warm-up of 9km leads to the start of the Lacets de Montvernier. 3.9km of 18 incredible switchbacks that lead to the little village of Montvernier. Then descend to Hermillon and on to St-Jean-de-Maurienne, famous for the Opinel Museum and its rich TDF history of stage finishes.
Continuing to the Col de la Croix de Fer, where there is a beautiful climb, but long (29km) due to its undulating nature. In places, the gradient is quite gentle, but there are two sections where it's steep and tough, one being the last 7km. Save a little something for here.
Although the gradient may be inconsistent, the scenery is always the same, stunning!
Reaching the top, sitting at over 2000m you will be greeted by the Iron Cross that gives the col its name. From here, it is a short 5km descent to where we join the Col du Glandon, which we follow to St-Etienne-de-Cuines and the end of the ride.
