A former crossing point between Gaul and Roman Italy, this border pass links the Tarentaise valley to the Aosta Valley via a long climb with a relatively gentle gradient for an Alpine pass.
A long climb to 2,189 metres
From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the road climbs roughly 30 km for close to 1,378 m of elevation gain, averaging under 5%. The steady, moderate gradient makes it an accessible pass, despite its length, for intermediate-level riders.
A pass steeped in history
The summit, which marks the border between Savoie and Italy’s Aosta Valley, preserves the remains of a hospice founded in the Middle Ages and a Roman column, evidence of a route used since antiquity between Gaul and Italy.
Getting the ride right
A compact or triple crankset makes the 30 km ascent comfortably manageable. Carry extra bottle cages, as refuelling points are scarce over the second half of the route.
When to go
June to September, as the road is generally clear during this window, with the pass topping out above 2,100 m.
Good to know
La Rosière, a resort town on the route, makes a welcome stop before the final kilometres, while the Italian descent towards La Thuile allows the ride to be extended into the Aosta Valley.
