The Col de la Colombière, in the Aravis range, is one of Savoie’s most emblematic Tour de France passes. Climbed from the south from Le Grand-Bornand, it offers a more approachable ascent than its northern counterpart via the Col de Romme, while keeping a tough final stretch that makes it a benchmark for any cyclist passing through Haute-Savoie.
The profile from Le Grand-Bornand
From Le Grand-Bornand, expect 11.7 km and 690 m of climbing, averaging 5.9%. The road first winds through a fir forest before opening onto the wide alpine pastures of the Aravis range, with the view gradually widening toward the surrounding peaks. The final kilometre is noticeably more selective, with a section over 10% before reaching the summit at 1,613 m.
Getting the ride right
The first half of the climb is fairly rolling, letting you hold a sustainable rhythm without digging too deep into your reserves. It’s in the final kilometre, steeper and more exposed, that you need to keep something in reserve. For a more complete outing, stronger riders can start from Scionzier or Cluses and take in the Col de Romme before the Colombière, reproducing the feared double ascent used by the Tour de France.
When to go
May to October, as the road is generally closed in winter due to snow. June and September offer good conditions with lighter traffic than the height of summer, when the pass also draws plenty of hikers and touring vehicles.
Good to know
Le Grand-Bornand, a village at the heart of Reblochon cheese country, offers a wide choice of accommodation and gives access to other renowned passes in the Aravis range, such as the Col des Aravis or the Col de la Croix Fry, for building a multi-day cycling trip.
