There is nothing nicer than being able to climb an Alpine col without being rushed by cars. Especially if you also want to descend without the fear of a car or motorcyclist coming your way. Meanwhile, you have several initiatives in the Alps that allow you to ride up car-free. The Hautes-Alpes region has a wonderful amount of climbing and car-free days in the Alps that you'll be only too happy to take advantage of.
Col du Galibier
The Galibier is one of the climbs of the Tour de France. 17.5 kilometres of enjoyment. Combined with the Telegraphe, a classic combo you will want to do this climb. Not for nothing is it a Classic Ride on CyclingDestination. This col can be climbed for several days in 2025 without other traffic. On these days, the Galibier will be completely free for you!
- 30 June 2025
- 17 July 2025
- 5 August 2025
Mark these days in your diary, especially if you are going to visit the region around the Galibier for your next cycling adventure.
Col du Granon
This 11.3-kilometre climb with an average of 9.3% really shouldn't be missed on your holiday. The Granon has also been included in the Tour de France a few times and on the following days you can cycle up this beautiful Alpine col car-free:
- 1 July 2025
- 16 July 2025
- 13 August 2025
Col de l'Izoard
Another great Alpine col, familiar from the Tour de France. It has been climbed from both sides before in the world's biggest cycling race. From Briancon 14km+ at 7.5% is no slouch. Also this year, the Izoard is car-free to climb on the following days
- July 3, 2025
- 7 August 2025
Col du Noyer
At 6.5 kilometres at 8.5%, this relatively unknown climb is a beautiful one to ride. This col can also be climbed on 6 August 2025, with no cars around you. Perfect for attacking the KOM/QOM there
Col Agnel/Colle d'Agnello
Whoever says the Agnel will call Steven Kruijswijk's name. That one fatal day in the 2016 Giro will always haunt him. The climb then went from the Italian side, but once in France, Kruijswijk crashed into the wall of snow. Gone pink dream, gone first grand tour win. Everything after that is history.
On 4 July 2025 and 7 September 2025, the Agnel will be completely car-free. Once you get to the top, you'll be able to think about Kruijswijk and his fall for a while.
Other cols: Col de l'Echelle, Pommerol, Ceuse, Puy Saint Vincent.
Find out more about car-free days in the Alps at the site of Hautes-Alpes
