Col du Galibier
France · Hautes-Alpes / Savoie
2,642m
Key Facts
- Elevation
- 2,642m
- Route length
- 65 km
- Max gradient
- 12.1%
- Hairpins
- 32
- Driving difficulty
- Demanding (4/5)
- Surface
- Good
- Open
- June - October
Route & Map
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Route
SSaint-Michel-de-Maurienne
65 km · max 12.1%
▲Col du Galibier (2,642m)
Descent
ELe Monêtier-les-Bains
One of the most legendary Tour de France climbs. Connects the Maurienne to the Guisane valley with panoramic views of La Meije, the Écrins, and Mont Blanc.
Weather & Conditions
Driving Experience
Elevation Profile
↑2,113m gain
↓1,345m loss
726m → 2,639m → 1,494m
Difficulty
Demanding
4/5 — car driving difficulty
Based on steepness, elevation gain, hairpins, road length & surface quality
Hairpin Turns
32
A relentless sequence of switchbacks
When to Drive
June - October (Best: July - September)
- ›Open June - October. Check locally for exact opening dates as conditions vary each year.
- ›Drive early morning (before 8 AM) for clear views, ideal light, and less traffic.
- ›At this altitude, weather can change rapidly. Bring warm layers even in summer.
Photos
Coordinates
- Summit
- 45.0641°N, 6.4083°E
- Start (Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne)
- 45.2197°N, 6.4706°E
- End (Le Monêtier-les-Bains)
- 44.9764°N, 6.5083°E
#iconic#cycling#tour-de-france#route-des-grandes-alpes
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Image: muneaki / CC BY-SA 3.0