With nearly 60 passes in over 100 years of Tour de France history, the Galibier is an imposing col in both reputation and stature. Standing at 2646m, it is one of the tour's highest climbs and arguably its hardest!
This ride kicks-off from the more challenging northern side. Starting in St-Jean-de-Maurienne for a warm up cycle into St-Michelle-de-Maurienne before heading straight onto the Col du Telegraphe. A worthy challenge in its own right. A 12km climb with an average of 7%. The road is largely tree-lined and offers plenty of welcome shade in summer. The Col tops out at 1566m, where you will find a little cafe, with a great atmosphere and plenty of people taking a well-earned rest!
The top of the Telegraphe is a perfect spot to take in the views and enjoy some much-needed lunch, before descending the 5km to Valloire, and then on to the Galibier.
This is a legend of a climb! There is a false flat to start before it ramps up and really gets going. The climb peaks at 2646m, with stunning views towards the south and Serre Chevalier. From here, as they say, it's all downhill! Well nearly, just under 2000m elevation drop over 35km, quite the ride. A truly stunning day taking in the Giants of the Alps!
