Route des Grandes Alpes

The full ride begins in Geneva, adding about 34 km before the traditional Route des Grandes Alpes starts at Thonon-les-Bains. Follow the lakeside approach toward the Chablais and climb through the Aravis landscape. Traffic, cyclists, farm vehicles and shaded surfaces call for a patient pace. Continue via Col des Aravis and Beaufort toward Cormet de Roselend, allowing a safe viewpoint stop only if conditions permit. The road then descends to Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the first overnight. At about 232 km, this is the longest day. Begin fuelled, plan lunch during the local service window and avoid a late arrival if resort traffic or weather slows the passes. The stage mixes the Geneva approach, technical bends and high mountain scenery. Check current pass notices before departure, keep warm and waterproof layers accessible, and use designated pull-offs rather than stopping in narrow bends. Its overnight town has practical services and a short walkable centre.

Leave Bourg-Saint-Maurice with a full tank and follow the route through the Tarentaise toward Val-d’Isère. The climb to Col de l’Iseran is the defining high-altitude section: exposed weather, cold air and sudden visibility changes deserve a conservative pace, even in summer. Descend through the Maurienne and continue toward Col du Télégraphe and Col du Galibier. The roadbook reaches Briançon after about 192 km, though high passes make elapsed time unpredictable. Check each pass before departure and again in the valley. Schedule lunch after the Iseran descent or around the Galibier corridor, confirming that the chosen kitchen is serving. Keep a warm layer within reach and watch for cyclists, livestock, gravel and water across the road. Arrive with enough daylight to park, check in and walk the fortified old town. If weather or a closure changes the plan, follow signed roads and reconsider the destination rather than rushing a substitute route.

From Briançon, the route turns south toward the limestone scenery of Col d’Izoard, then crosses Col de Vars and climbs toward Col de la Bonette. Follow the signed road and local signs; use designated safe stopping places rather than blocking narrow roads. The high southern passes can remain cold and windy while lower valleys are hot, so keep water accessible and adjust clothing as altitude changes. Refuel before remote stretches and check station hours in advance. Continue through the Tinée and Vésubie mountain country toward Col de Turini, then descend to the Mediterranean finish at Menton. This final day covers about 266 km. Leave early, keep photo stops selective and reserve time for traffic on the Riviera approach. Plan lunch around the valley service window and confirm the venue directly. Once parked, explore Menton on foot and celebrate the crossing without needing another ride. A memorable final alpine-to-sea riding day.