The best road cycling routes around Lac de la Gittaz

The Lac de la Gittaz area offers over 30 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with about 20 moderate routes, 10 difficult ones, and a few easier options for a more relaxed ride.

Road cycling in the Lac de la Gittaz region, part of the Beaufortain, is generally challenging due to significant elevation gains. While there are some easier paths, many routes require good fitness. The climb to Lac de la Gittaz itself is known for its high difficulty, with a substantial vertical ascent over 13.4 kilometers.

The ascent to Lac de la Gittaz is a demanding climb with an average gradient of 6.7%. The road is narrow, and some sections are partially unpaved. Cyclists will also encounter a short, unlit tunnel with a somewhat poor road surface just before reaching the reservoir. The asphalt ends directly at the lake.

The region offers diverse and stunning landscapes. You'll cycle through wooded ascents with visible waterfalls, transitioning to expansive alpine meadows as you gain elevation. Higher vantage points, such as those along the Serpentine Route – Towards Cormet de Roselend loop, provide breathtaking views, including distant glimpses of Mont Blanc from passes like Col du Joly. The area is characterized by glacial valleys and rugged peaks.

Absolutely. The region is rich with beautiful high-altitude lakes and impressive dams. The famous Cormet de Roselend and Lac de Roselend are major attractions, offering spectacular views, especially from the Barrage de Roselend. Other nearby lakes include Lac Saint-Guérin, known for its emerald blue reflections and a suspended footbridge, Lac d'Amour, and the picturesque Fairy Lake.

The best time for road cycling around Lac de la Gittaz is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more favorable weather conditions, with mountain passes generally clear of snow. Always check local weather forecasts, especially for higher elevations, as conditions can change rapidly.

While many routes in the immediate Lac de la Gittaz area are challenging, the broader Beaufortain region does offer some easier options. For instance, the Orage sur le Cormet – Cormet de Roselend loop from Le Chantel is an easy 5.5 km path with less elevation, suitable for a quicker outing. Look for routes with lower elevation gains and gentler gradients for family-friendly rides.

Yes, the region offers several circular routes. For example, the View of Lake Roselend – Plan de la Lai Refuge loop from Barrage de Roselend is a popular moderate circular route. The Serpentine Route – Towards Cormet de Roselend loop from Cormet de Roselend also provides a longer, more challenging loop experience.

Parking facilities are available in nearby towns like Beaufort-sur-Doron, which serves as a common starting point for many routes in the region. When planning your route, check the specific starting point for available parking, especially near popular areas like Barrage de Roselend or Cormet de Roselend.

Public transport options directly to the more remote starting points like Lac de la Gittaz itself might be limited. However, you can often find bus services to larger towns in the Beaufortain region, such as Beaufort-sur-Doron, which can serve as a base for your cycling adventures. From there, you would cycle to your desired route start.

Yes, the town of Beaufort-sur-Doron, a central hub in the region, offers various cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Along popular routes, especially near major passes like Cormet de Roselend or around the larger lakes, you may also find refuges or small eateries. It's advisable to check opening times, especially outside of peak season.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural beauty, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the immersive experience on roads with minimal traffic. The diverse scenery, from waterfalls to alpine meadows, and the wild character of Lac de la Gittaz are frequently highlighted.

Yes, the authentic and unspoiled wilderness of the Beaufortain region, particularly in higher alpine meadows and less-frequented areas, offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for local fauna, especially during quieter times of the day or in less populated sections of your ride.