Where is Col du Mont-Cenis?
France, europe
N/A
2,094 m
moderate
Year-round
Col du Mont-Cenis – or Colle del Moncenisio if you're feeling Italian – is a breathtaking mountain pass chilling way up at 2,094m (6,870ft) in the French Alps, right on the border with Italy (well, almost - it's been all-French since 1947!). You'll find it nestled in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, alongside a stunning lake of the same name.
The D1006 will take you right to the top on smooth, paved roads, whether you're coming from Lanslebourg-Mont-Cenis in France or Susa in Italy. This climb isn't for the faint of heart; it’s been featured in both the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia! Get ready for some steep sections, peaking at almost 13% gradient, including a legendary set of five hairpin turns. Expect a consistent slope of around 7% on the wide, well-maintained road.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! You’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the snowy peaks of the Vanoise National Park.
Heads up: this road is usually open from mid-May to the end of October on the French side, but the Italian side stays open year-round. It can get pretty crowded on weekends.
Fun fact: some believe Hannibal may have crossed here with his elephants! It's been a crucial route for centuries, used by armies from Constantine I to Charlemagne. Napoleon even had the road improved in 1810!
Plus, the lake area is perfect for exploring, especially if you're into mountain biking. There are tons of rough-stuff routes waiting to be discovered!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,094 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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