Rode the Col de la Croix de Fer (part of La Marmotte route) with our quests from our base in Bourg d’Oisans on a fantastic early autumn day – probably the best time of year to experience the famous Tour de France Cols. The ride starts with a flat road to Allemont. From here the 25km climb up to the Col de la Croix de Fer starts with a sharp incline up the side of the dam and then a more steady climb up to the beautiful village of Rivier. Once here there is a small descent down a few hairpins before you start climbing up the other side of the valley.
From here it is a steady but strenuous climb up to the Grand Maison Barrage – a massive dam. After a few more switchbacks its a steady climb up to the Col de la Croix de Fer on a meandering road that you can see disappear into the distance. (At this point you can also turn off for the Col du Glandon as well).
At the top there is a cafe serving food and drinks and quite an atmosphere of cyclist / motorbikers and tourists taking in the fantastic food and views. After our lunch stop we returned to Bourg d’Oisans on the same route enjoying the super fast descents and quiet roads
You can experience this route and others with our supported holidays based out of our house in the centre of Bourg d’Oisans. Or if you are staying in the area and just want to hire a bike for a couple of days then you can reserve these online. The total distance is approximately 76km although as part of our service we can drop you off a bit closer.
A great day out !
