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Col du Galibier
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Mountain
The Col du Galibier is one of the most famous and highest mountain passes in the French Alps, connecting the regions of Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne and Briançon. Reaching an elevation of 2,642 meters, it forms the natural boundary between the Savoie and Hautes-Alpes departments. Geographically part of the Dauphiné massif, the pass features sweeping views of the nearby Meije glacier and Mont Blanc. The Galibier is inextricably linked to the history of the Tour de France, having been a regular feature since 1911 and often representing the highest point of the race (the Souvenir Henri Desgrange). Due to extreme weather conditions, the road is typically navigable only from June to October. A tunnel constructed beneath the summit in 1891 once facilitated easier passage, whereas the modern pass road is celebrated for its steep gradients and tight hairpin bends. For cyclists worldwide, the Galibier is regarded as the ultimate challenge and a historic monument to alpine cycling.
- Location: Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
- Top sights: Sommet du Santin - Serre Orel · Pointe des Lauzettes · La Pare
- Nearby: Valloire (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -7 | -7 | -3 | 2 | 6 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 9 | 5 | -1 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 54 | 67 | 61 | 90 | 71 | 58 | 59 | 59 | 75 | 89 | 79 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Visitors typically reach Col du Galibier via scenic mountain roads acting as primary routes. Most begin their steep ascent from nearby alpine base towns.
Best season
The best time to visit is strictly during the summer months when high passes are clear of snow. Weather changes fast, so clear mornings are well-suited.
Terrain & paths
The route features steep, continuous paved ascents with numerous sharp hairpin turns. The road is well-maintained, but the elevation gain is tough.
What to bring
Tackling this requires a properly serviced vehicle or a geared road bike. All visitors need windproof clothing due to cold summit temperatures.
Parking
Official parking near the summit is extremely limited and fills rapidly in peak season. It is common to park in lower towns and travel upwards.
Safety
Extreme caution is vital on narrow, winding sections without guardrails. Sudden alpine storms and strong winds pose significant high-altitude risks.
Time needed
A continuous scenic drive usually takes several hours without major stops. Cyclists should realistically allocate a full half-day for the ascent.
Geography
Facts
- The pass summit is at an elevation of 2,642 meters.
- It was first included in the Tour de France in 1911.
- It marks the divide between the Northern and Southern French Alps.
- A tunnel under the ridge was completed as early as 1891.
- Site of a monument to Henri Desgrange, the founder of the Tour.
- The gradient exceeds 10% during the final kilometers of the climb.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Col du Galibier (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the Col du Galibier open for traffic?
The pass is usually open from June to October, depending on snow conditions.
How high is the pass?
The pass elevation is 2642 meters above sea level.
Is there a tunnel at the summit?
Yes, there is a single-lane tunnel at 2556m for vehicles up to 19 tons.
Which regions does the pass connect?
It connects Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne in Savoie with Briançon in Hautes-Alpes.
Why is it famous for cyclists?
It is one of the most legendary and difficult climbs in the Tour de France.
Col du Galibier: where is it located?
Col du Galibier is located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France.
Col du Galibier: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sommet du Santin - Serre Orel, Pointe des Lauzettes, La Pare.
Col du Galibier: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Col du Galibier: why is it worth visiting?
The Col du Galibier is one of the most famous and highest mountain passes in the French Alps, connecting the regions of Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne and Briançon.
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