D108: Driving the steep ramps to Lac de Plan d’Aval in the Vanoise Massif
France, europe
6.8 km
2,041 m
moderate
Year-round
# Lac de Plan d'Aval: A Short but Seriously Steep Alpine Climb
Tucked away in the Savoie department of France, Lac de Plan d'Aval sits pretty at 2,041m (6,696ft) elevation within the stunning Vanoise National Park. The drive up here? It's short, sweet, and absolutely brutal in the best way possible.
This scenic alpine route starts in the charming village of Aussois and climbs 6.8 km (4.22 miles) with a whopping 558 meters of elevation gain. Don't let the distance fool you—the average gradient hangs tough at 8.20%, with sections pushing up to 11.8%. It's the kind of road that'll make your calves (and your brakes) work for every meter of altitude.
Built between 1945 and 1956 as part of the region's hydroelectric boom, the D108 (Route des Barrages) has evolved into a favorite playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone who loves a challenge. The road itself is fully paved and well-maintained, winding through some seriously gorgeous mountain scenery as you climb toward the twin dams.
When you finally reach the parking area between the two reservoirs, the payoff is worth every switchback. Picture turquoise waters surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Massif de la Vanoise—it's absolutely breathtaking.
One heads-up: this southern-facing route gets hammered by winter snow, so expect closures during the colder months. And if you're coming down on a bike or in a vehicle with manual transmission, go easy on those brakes—they'll be smoking by the time you hit Aussois again.
Where is it?
D108: Driving the steep ramps to Lac de Plan d’Aval in the Vanoise Massif is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.7570, 1.8785
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 6.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,041 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.7570, 1.8785
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