Col du Granon Climb from Briançon

This route is considered difficult and is renowned as one of the most challenging climbs in the French Alps. The ascent to Col du Granon is approximately 11.3 km long from Saint-Chaffrey, with an average gradient of 9.2% and sections reaching up to 12.8%, and even steeper parts reportedly touching nearly 20%. It demands continuous effort with very few flat sections.

Despite its difficulty, the route offers beautiful and varied scenery. You'll be treated to constant views of glaciers atop the peaks of the Massif des Écrins and breathtaking panoramic views, especially looking back down the valley as you ascend. The landscape transitions to a more rugged appearance at higher altitudes, and you might even spot marmots.

The Col du Granon is notable for its extreme difficulty, being one of the toughest and highest paved climbs in France. It also has a rich Tour de France history, having been included in legendary races in 1986 and 2022. Furthermore, it's a quiet and secluded climb with very little motorized traffic, as the road is a dead-end for road bikes, offering a unique cycling experience.

The estimated duration for cycling this 34.4 km route is approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes, though this can vary significantly based on individual fitness and pace due to the challenging nature of the climb.

The route typically starts in Briançon. The strenuous ascent to Col du Granon begins after passing through Saint-Chaffrey. The climb culminates at the Col du Granon at 2405 meters, which is a dead-end for road cyclists.

This route is primarily an out-and-back for road cyclists. The road beyond the Col du Granon summit is unpaved (gravel) and crosses a military area, making it inaccessible and generally forbidden for road bikes and passenger traffic.

Given its high altitude (2405 meters), the best time to cycle to Col du Granon is typically during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the road is clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Always check local road closure information before planning your trip.

Beyond the challenging Climb to Col du Granon itself, you'll pass through settlements like Mas de Blais and Saint-Chaffrey at the base of the climb. The primary 'point of interest' is the summit itself, offering panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.

While the route starts in Briançon, parking options would be available within Briançon itself. At the summit of Col du Granon, there is a small parking area, often used by hikers, but this is at the end of the climb.

There are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the public road from Briançon to Col du Granon.

No, the Col du Granon road is known for having very little motorized traffic. As it's a dead-end for road bikes, this characteristic offers a unique and quiet cycling experience, allowing you to focus on the climb and the scenery.

Descending the Col du Granon is considered difficult and technical. Due to its steepness and narrow road, caution is required. While the road surface was re-surfaced in many sections prior to the 2022 Tour de France, its challenging gradient still demands careful handling on the descent.