If you say "bicycle" in France, you say Isère. That equates to Bourg d’Oisans and once you’re in Bourg d’Oisans, you can only think of the Alpe: Alpe d’Huez. With its 21 turns, rich history for both pros, beginners and everyone in between, you’re here in the beating heart of cycling tourism. Yet the experts agree: ‘The Alp’ is certainly not the most beautiful climb there is and it’s certainly not the hardest climb either. In fact, there might be 100 mountains that are more interesting than the Alpe d’Huez. There’s even one entire website Dedicated to them. We are closing our case. That is why we are now offering some alternatives for cycling the Isère, which may be more fun, more difficult or more beautiful than the ’21 virages d’Alpe D’Huez’.
Collet de Vaujany
This little giant is hardly mentioned at all when it comes to the Isere. You can find it in the two Vaujany events: GFNY But otherwise, it seems that people are ignoring this climb. It could be because this climb (also) leads to nowhere, so it’s not really suitable for a nice round trip. But with 9.4 kilometers and a steep climb that rivals the Passo Giau, you’ll be rewarded with a sweet feeling after this.
Alpe d’Huez from the other side:
When you talk about Alpe d’Huez, there’s only one side. The one with those 21 turns. It’s always about the Dutch turn, turn 7. About the world of the late Marco Pantani. But there’s another side too. It’s less spectacular and less steeped in cycling history. But if you’re in the area anyway. The route is much friendlier in terms of slope percentage and you end up riding the final stretch on the same route as the more famous climb. This pass is also known as the Pas de la Confession. You start in the village of Allemond, not in Bourg d’Oisans.
Once you reach the top, you have three choices:
- Directly back via the same road
- Back through the famous 21 turns
- Driving on to the Col de Sarenne
We would choose the latter, then descend to the dam lake and then take a nice walk around the area. Not bad, if it's up to us.
Col du Sabot
A little north of Alpe d’Huez you’ll find this beautiful climb. It’s a ‘one-way’ so you’ll unfortunately have to ride the same route up as you descend down. But let’s be clear: this climb is a definite must-do. The top is much higher than that of its neighbor, because in total 14.5 kilometers, with a percentage of 8.9, this road takes you to 2,100 meters elevation. But it’s much quieter there and the views are much better than those of its famous brother. Moreover, the number of hairpin bends is certainly not to be missed.
Col du Sabot, Vaujany, France
• Distance: 14.6 km, Elevation: 1248 m, Average grade: 8.5 %
Col du Parquetout
We have already seen this climb before, namely in our overview of cols where you can climb. probably have never heard of it before. A beautiful climb, which doesn't necessarily have a high point, so that also offers opportunities for longer days in the year. However, this one will hurt! With only 1382 meters of elevation, it's not a high climb, but in 7.1 kilometers you climb up an average of 9.7% meters. At least, if you take the steep part.
More info
The area has much more to offer than the tips above. Take a look at the Website of Oisans, There you will find a lot of fun routes and alternatives.
The site of Isere Tourism Provides a world of information about the area. Enjoy cycling!
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.