Introduced by the Tour de France in 2020, the road to the Col de la Loze is nothing like a historic pass: it’s a climb designed and built specifically for cycling, topping out at 2,304 m, the highest point ever reached by the Tour at the time it was created.
A brand-new ascent, purpose-built for cycling
From Brides-les-Bains, the road climbs 21.5 km for roughly 1,700 m of elevation gain, averaging 7.5%. The route first passes through Méribel before joining the most spectacular section: a dedicated cycle path, free of car traffic, built specifically to link the resorts of Méribel and Courchevel across the alpine pastures. The final two kilometres are the hardest, averaging close to 10% with sections touching 24%, on a narrow road that zigzags across the mountainside.
A dramatic baptism of fire in 2020
During stage 17 of the 2020 Tour de France, between Grenoble and the Col de la Loze, Miguel Ángel López soloed to victory at the summit ahead of Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar, in a queen stage that confirmed Roglič’s grip on the yellow jersey just days before the finish in Paris.
Getting the ride right
Pacing is crucial: it’s worth keeping something in reserve for the final two kilometres, notably harder than the rest of the climb. A compact or triple crankset is strongly recommended, along with energy gels to hold the effort together, as the climb can take over two hours for an average rider.
When to go
July to September, as the summit cycle path is generally only clear of snow and open from midsummer onward, given the altitude and exposure of the site.
Good to know
Méribel and Courchevel offer a wide choice of upmarket accommodation used to a sporty clientele, with direct access to other climbs in the Vanoise massif such as the Cormet de Roselend or the Col de la Madeleine to extend a col-hunting trip.
