Whether it’s the north side via Col du Telegraphe or the south side from Valloire there is something magical about this mountain pass. It’s a place where you can really feel the altitude and the magnificent peaks that surround it.
The first few kilometers are relatively easy, giving you an opportunity to warm up and find your climbing rhythm. Then the climb really starts.
It’s a challenge
The Galibier is a massive climb. The road from La Grave towards the summit is not particularly steep, however long straight sections and some very long dark tunnels mean that the climb can be mentally tough. The views are incredible though and giant peaks loom over you as you make your way up the mighty mountain pass.
The climb from La Grave to the Galibier begins with the Col du Lautaret. This section of the road is very busy and it can be difficult to get past cars on the narrow roads. Once you reach the Galibier though it becomes a much more enjoyable climb with beautiful views over the valleys below and the mighty mountain passes of the alps.
The Galibier is one of the most iconic cols in cycling. It has featured in many classic stages of the Tour de France and is a favourite of the pros. The climb itself is long and gruelling, but the feeling of accomplishment when you reach the summit makes it all worth while.
It’s a thrill
The Col du Galibier is a powerhouse climb that can be done from either side, though we recommend riding it on the north side from either Briancon or Bourg d’Oisans. The road to the pass is beautiful and challenging, with a plethora of hairpin corners that make it a memorable ride.
Once you reach the top, the views are breathtaking, and the feeling of completing such an alpine challenge is unparalleled. It’s a moment that you will remember forever, and one that will inspire you to tackle more big mountains in the future!
The Galibier is a legendary climb in the Tour de France, and it has been featured on the race’s roster since 1911. It is a challenging climb with spectacular scenery, and the final kilometers are steep with little relief. There have been many great attacks on this mountain, including Fausto Coppi’s 1952 attack with 20km to go that sealed his victory in the race.
It’s a memory
The Galibier is a beautiful climb that offers a stunning view over the rough alpine world. However, it is one of the toughest passes in cycling. The first kilometers are a hard workout and the second half can be very cold. You must start slow and save yourself for the pass. This is why it’s important to plan your trip carefully.
This hors catégorie pass is the 4th highest road in Europe and regularly features in the Tour de France. It was built in 1911, just a year after the founder of the Tour de France, Henri Desgrange, introduced high mountain passes to the race. It’s an epic feat that should not be underestimated, especially as it can feel like a never-ending battle of attrition. But, once you reach the top, it’s an incredible feeling of achievement. There is almost a festival spirit on top, with cyclists and fat Harley Davidson or Honda Gold-Wing motorcyclists vying for photos by the famous sign.
It’s a place
As you reach the Col de Galibier, you’re atop one of cycling’s giants. The summit brings a sense of accomplishment and the views are breathtaking.
The pass is named after the mountain peak of le Galibier that towers over it. It first appeared in the Tour de France in 1911 and was climbed by Emile Georget. It has since been climbed more times than any other Alpine pass (and many times more than several passes in the Pyrenees). It’s also the most frequented climb in the Dauphine Alps.
The road that runs over the pass is 8.5 kilometres long and has an average gradient of 6.9%. It features cycling milestones every kilometre that indicate the distance to the summit and your current altitude. These markers are useful to help you plan your strategy. It can be a little boring for the first few kilometers as you warm up and settle into your climbing rhythm but once you get to the hairpins, things start to get exciting.