How to get to Glacier du Varet in Savoie?
France, europe
4.6 km
2,883 m
extreme
Year-round
# Glacier du Varet: Alpine Adventure Awaits
Nestled in the Savoie department of southeastern France, Glacier du Varet sits at a breathtaking 2,883 meters (9,458 feet) and ranks among the country's most impressive high-altitude drives. This gem lies within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, protected within the Réserve Naturelle des Hauts de Villaroger—and for good reason.
Picture this: a crystal-clear day where you can spin around 360 degrees and see nothing but the snow-capped Alps stretching endlessly in every direction. That's what awaits you here.
Now, let's talk real talk about getting there. This isn't your typical scenic cruise. Starting from Col de la Chal, you're looking at 4.6 kilometers (2.85 miles) of pure unpaved road—think service track for the chairlift. It's relentlessly curvy, pinches narrow in places, and climbs at an average gradient of 8.47% while gaining 390 meters of elevation. Translation? You'll need a capable 4x4 to even attempt it.
Here's the catch: this road is off-limits to regular vehicles and only opens seasonally from July through September. Even then, avalanches frequently close it without warning. It's not for the faint-hearted, but for those ready to conquer it, the rewards are absolutely unforgettable.
Where is it?
How to get to Glacier du Varet in Savoie? is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.7217, 1.5795
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 4.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,883 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 45.7217, 1.5795
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