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    Col de l'Iseran

    Col de l'Iseran

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    9. Col de l'Iseran
    The Col de l'Iseran in the French Alps is far more than just a pass – at 2,770 meters, it is France's highest drivable mountain pass and a cycling legend. Immerse yourself in a breathtaking high-alpine world, where majestic peaks, clear air, and unforgettable panoramic views await you, that will take your breath away.
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    • Neighborhoods & highlights
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    Overview

    At 2,770 meters, the Col de l'Iseran is France's highest drivable mountain pass and an iconic route in the Alps. It connects the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys, offering a journey through a barren yet stunning high-alpine landscape. Especially popular among cyclists, the pass is known as one of the most challenging stages of the Tour de France. From the summit, you'll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of surrounding glaciers and peaks of the Vanoise Massif. At the highest point, you'll also find a small chapel, Notre-Dame de Toute Prudence. The pass road is generally only open from early June to late October, depending on current snow conditions. Even in summer, be prepared for rapidly changing weather and cool temperatures.

    Places in Col de l'Iseran

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    Sights in Col de l'Iseran

    Passhöhe Col de l'Iseran

    Auf der Passhöhe des Col de l'Iseran stehst Du auf 2.770 Metern über dem Meeresspiegel und genießt eine grandiose 360-Grad-Aussicht auf die umliegenden Gipfel des Vanoise-Massivs. Besuche die charmante kleine Kapelle Notre-Dame-de-Toutes-les-Grâces und spüre die einzigartige Atmosphäre dieses ikonischen Ortes, der sowohl Radfahrer als auch Autofahrer fasziniert.
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    Bonneval-sur-Arc

    Nur wenige Kilometer südlich des Passes erwartet Dich Bonneval-sur-Arc, eines der "schönsten Dörfer Frankreichs". Schlendere durch die engen Gassen mit ihren traditionellen Steinhäusern und Schieferdächern, entdecke die authentische savoyische Architektur und genieße die friedliche Atmosphäre dieses malerischen alpinen Kleinods.
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    Lac du Chevril & Barrage de Tignes

    Auf dem Weg von Val d'Isère zum Col de l'Iseran kommst Du am beeindruckenden Lac du Chevril vorbei, einem Stausee, dessen smaragdgrünes Wasser sich malerisch in die Berglandschaft einfügt. Bewundere die monumentale Barrage de Tignes, eine der größten Staumauern Europas, und halte an den vielen Aussichtspunkten für spektakuläre Fotos.
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    Panoramastraße D902

    Die Fahrt über die D902 selbst ist eine Sehenswürdigkeit: eine kurvenreiche Alpenstraße, die sich durch spektakuläre Landschaften schlängelt. Genieße die stetig wechselnden Ausblicke auf grüne Almen, schroffe Felsformationen und kleine Wasserfälle. Halte an den ausgewiesenen Haltebuchten, um die Weite und Schönheit der französischen Hochalpen in vollen Zügen zu genießen.
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    City walks in Col de l'Iseran

    Curated walking tours through the city's highlights — handpicked by experienced travel journalists.

    Alpenriesen und Himmelskapelle: Eine Wanderung am Col de l'Iseran

    Erkunden Sie auf dieser zweistündigen Panoramawanderung die atemberaubende Hochalpenlandschaft des Col de l'Iseran, einem der höchsten befahrbaren Pässe Europas. Genießen Sie spektakuläre Ausblicke auf zwei Täler, besuchen Sie eine charmante Kapelle und tauchen Sie ein in die einzigartige alpine Natur.

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    The Col de l'Iseran: History and Alpine Heritage

    The history of the Col de l'Iseran is closely linked to the development of the Alps for transport. Although shepherds and local residents used the pass via narrow paths for centuries, the construction of the current high alpine road only took place in the 20th century.As part of the famous "Route des Grandes Alpes," the road was completed in 1937 and represented a masterpiece of engineering, connecting the valleys of Maurienne and Tarentaise. Architecturally significant is the small Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Toute-Prudence, consecrated in 1939 at the pass summit, serving as the patron saint of travelers. Its simple, robust construction blends harmoniously into the high alpine landscape.Culturally, the Col de l'Iseran is strongly shaped by the alpine lifestyle. The region is known for its pastoral tradition, particularly the production of Beaufort cheese, made on the surrounding alpine pastures. Furthermore, the pass has gained special significance for cycling culture due to its regular inclusion in the Tour de France, making it a pilgrimage site for cyclists from around the world. The seasonal opening of the pass continues to dictate the rhythm of alpine life and tourism in this unique high-mountain region to this day.

    Getting around here

    The Col de l'Iseran is primarily accessible via its impressive pass road and is a popular destination for motorists, motorcyclists, and especially cyclists. As the highest road pass in the French Alps, it connects the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys in summer. Direct public transport to the pass summit is rare, so access is usually individual or through special tour packages.

    Accommodations in Col de l'Iseran

    Accommodations in Col de l'Iseran

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    Campgrounds in Col de l'Iseran

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    Locations nearby

    These places are nearby — perfect for additional days or a day trip.

    Gran Paradiso National Park (Piedmontese Part)

    Gran Paradiso National Park (Piedmontese Part)

    Italy's oldest National Park, in the heart of the Alps, offers pristine nature, majestic peaks, and rich wildlife, ideal for hikers and nature lovers.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, is considered the birthplace of alpinism and a globally renowned hub for mountaineers and winter sports enthusiasts. From here, the Aiguille du Midi cable car grants you access to the Mont Blanc massif, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Another highlight is the Montenvers rack railway, which takes you to the Mer de Glace, France's largest glacier, where you can explore the Grotte de Glace. The town center offers a mix of traditional Savoyard architecture and modern shops, as well as restaurants serving local specialties. The history of the place is closely linked to the conquest of the Alps, reflected in numerous monuments and the Alpine Museum. For a more relaxed exploration, a visit outside of peak season in July/August and February/March is recommended. To avoid long queues at the Aiguille du Midi, book tickets online in advance, ideally for the first ride of the morning.
    Albertville

    Albertville

    Welcome to Albertville, a city that is more than just a gateway to the Alps! Here, where the 1992 Winter Olympics took place, you'll encounter a fascinating blend of sporting history and the timeless charm of the medieval Cité de Conflans. Let yourself be enchanted by the narrow streets and Savoyard hospitality as you explore the picturesque surroundings.
    Megève

    Megève

    Welcome to Megève, a place that enchants with its timeless elegance and the charm of a traditional Savoyard village. Here you'll find not only first-class ski slopes and luxurious accommodations, but also a car-free old town with cobblestone streets that invite you to stroll and discover. Let yourself be captivated by the alpine way of life and the outstanding gastronomy in this pearl of the French Alps!
    Turin

    Turin

    Turin, the first capital of unified Italy, presents itself with a royal flair and elegant Baroque architecture. The city invites you to stroll through its miles of arcaded streets and houses significant cultural sites. Visit the Mole Antonelliana with its Cinema Museum and the world-renowned Egyptian Museum. At Piazza Castello, the Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama tell the story of the House of Savoy. Explore the charming Quadrilatero Romano and relax in Parco del Valentino by the Po. Try the traditional Bicerin and experience the lively aperitivo culture. The ideal months for travel are May, June, September, and October.