Bike touring: 3 new routes and 3 times more reasons to come cycle on the beautiful roads of Maurienne!

A privileged ally for all desires for freedom, cycling promises to establish itself as the queen of spring! While Maurienne already holds a special place in the hearts of cyclists – its great passes and mythical roads are world-renowned – this year it is launching three new itineraries that start from Maurienne and extend to its neighboring territories: Italy, Oisans (Hautes-Alpes), and Tarentaise. Specially adapted for e-bikes (Electric Assist Bicycles), but also possible on classic bikes, these itineraries extend the pleasures of cycle tourism and multiply the sense of adventure! Between alpine immersion, exceptional panoramas, and heritage discoveries: you will love cycling through Maurienne, and beyond.

Source: Press Release

The Loop of the 6 Mythical Passes, between Maurienne & Oisans

This itinerary is the promise of a spectacular escape. A succession of challenges and an opportunity to feast your eyes! For five days, gently climb 6 remarkable passes – the Télégraphe, the Galibier, the Lautaret, the Glandon, the Croix de Fer, and the Mollard – and enjoy the magnificent panoramas offered by the Vanoise and Écrins massifs. Ascents punctuated by “discovery breaks” with an immersion in the local environment: lakes, forts, museums, gardens, baroque art, Beaufort cheese, etc. A mythical loop full of surprises!

The must-do of the cyclo trip : the ascent of the mythical Col du Galibier during the second stage of the itinerary. 17 kilometers and an average gradient of 6.9%, it is a must for any cyclist, with a magnificent panorama as a reward.

The favorite : visit the village of La Grave, the arrival point of the second stage, classified among the most beautiful villages in France thanks to its panoramic location and authentic atmosphere. The village is located at 1500 m altitude and is overlooked by the Meije massif.

Practical info: Difficult level / 173 km / 2645 m of positive elevation gain / 5 days and 4 nights / Roadbook available on www.velo-maurienne.com

The Maurienn’Ita, the crossing of Maurienne to Italy

When the roads of Maurienne allow you to reach Italy… this itinerary allows you to cross the border! First, cycle from village to village, peacefully on the roads of Maurienne, and discover, as you stop, some “treasures” around know-how, landscapes, and heritage: the Vanoise National Park and its glaciers, the fortified barrier of Esseillon, the Opinel museum, the Val-Cenis Lanslebourg Dairy Cooperative, etc. A beautiful Franco-Italian journey.

The must-do of the cyclo trip : the final ascent of the very beautiful Col du Mont-Cenis which leads to Lac du Mont-Cenis, an alpine jewel of turquoise waters at 1974m altitude.

The favorite: take out your Opinel, emblem of Maurienne, acquired on the road during a stop at the Opinel Museum and savor a good piece of Beaufort cheese from the Cooperative with a view of Lac du Mont-Cenis. The moment is simply delicious!

Practical info: Difficult level / 134.6 km / 2096 m of positive elevation gain / 4 days and 3 nights / Roadbook available on www.velo-maurienne.com

 
L’Entre 2, the Col de la Madeleine between Maurienne and Tarentaise

Cycle tourism meets well-being… This itinerary alternates gentle rides and self-challenge. After climbing the mythical Col de la Madeleine – following in the footsteps of the greatest champions of the Tour de France – reach the other side of the Lauzière massif, on the Tarentaise side, then the Olympic city of Albertville before rejoining the V 62 cycle route for a peaceful return. As a bonus, the Saint-François Longchamp balneotherapy center for a well-deserved moment of relaxation!

The must-do of the cyclo trip : The Balneotherapy Center of the Saint-François Longchamp resort awaits riders at the arrival point. Comfort after effort, and go from cold to hot in the baths of St François.

The favorite: after a spa and hammam session, enjoy a good massage to relax your muscles that will have been well used.

Practical info: Difficult level / 117.6 km / 1994 m of positive elevation gain / 3 days and 2 nights / Roadbook available on www.velo-maurienne.com

Special e-bike equipment

While the 3 new itineraries are indicated as “difficult” level, using an e-bike greatly facilitates the rides! Free access charging points, “bike-friendly” certified accommodations and restaurants offering services adapted to cyclists, repair shops… Everything is provided for the safety and quality reception of cyclists!