Where is Cormet de Roselend?

Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the French Alps on the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes and you come across the Cormet de Roselend. This beauty of a pass sits way up high at almost 2,000 meters!

You'll find it snuggled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, practically waving to Italy. "Cormet" basically means "summit," so you know you're in for a treat.

This paved road, known as the D902 and D925, stretches for about 40 kilometers. Get ready for some serious hairpin action – we're talking 22 tight turns as you wind your way from Beaufort to Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Heads up, though: like many alpine roads, this one usually shuts down in winter.

This climb isn’t for the faint of heart. It's been a part of the Tour de France, so you know it’s got some bite! Some sections hit a 12% gradient, so be prepared for a workout. From Beaufort, it’s a 20km climb, gaining over 1,200 meters at an average of 6%. If you are coming from Bourg Saint Maurice, it’s around 19km, climbing over 1,100 meters, with steepest sections at 10%. Expect a steady start with plenty of shade, but after about 5km, hold on tight for a series of ten hairpin turns with 8% gradients.

Is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are killer. As you pass through the Vallée des Glaciers, keep your eyes peeled for Mont Blanc. And then there's the Lac de Roselend on the west side, a gorgeous reservoir that takes this whole experience to another level. Think alpine meadows, cowbells, and panoramic views that just keep getting better and better. This pass is a must-do!