A Fantastic Road to Col des Saisies, with Great Views of Mont Blanc
France, europe
26.8 km
1,657 m
moderate
Year-round
# Col des Saisies
Tucked away in the Savoie department of southeastern France, Col des Saisies sits pretty at 1,657m (5,436ft) and serves as one of the crown jewels along the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes. Located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this pass has earned serious cycling credentials through its frequent appearances in the Tour de France.
The fully paved D218B road climbs for 26.8 km (16.65 miles) from Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe to Villard-sur-Doron, and let me tell you—it doesn't take it easy. You'll tackle sections with gradients hitting 11.4%, so your legs will definitely feel this one. Fair warning though: the summit experience is a bit of an anticlimactic moment. Unlike some of the Alps' more dramatic peaks, you don't get that jaw-dropping summit view. Instead, the road just gently flattens out as it passes through what feels like a sleepy ski resort, which can feel a little underwhelming after all that climbing.
The pass stays open year-round most of the time, though Mother Nature has the final say—snow closures can happen anytime during winter months, so check conditions before you head up. Ready to add this Alpine challenge to your bucket list?
Where is it?
A Fantastic Road to Col des Saisies, with Great Views of Mont Blanc is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.5648, 0.4395
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 26.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,657 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 45.5648, 0.4395
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