The Col d’Izoard, rising to 2,360 m between the Briançonnais and the Queyras, ranks among the Tour de France’s most storied climbs. Its final stretch, through the mineral landscape of the Casse Déserte, makes it one of the most photogenic passes in the southern Alps.
A legendary Tour de France climb
From Briançon, the road climbs about 19.2 km for 1,105 m of elevation gain, averaging 5.8%, passing through the village of Cervières before tackling the steepest section. The final kilometres cross the Casse Déserte, an almost lunar chaos of rock and scree where a memorial honours Fausto Coppi and Louison Bobet, who fought memorable duels on these slopes in the 1950s.
The summit, marked by a monument dedicated to the Chasseurs Alpins mountain regiments, offers open views over the Queyras and surrounding peaks.
Getting the ride right
A compact or triple crankset is still recommended for the more irregular final section. The descent toward the Queyras (via Arvieux and Guillestre) or back to Briançon can feel cold even in high summer at this altitude — a windproof jacket isn’t overkill.
When to go
June to September, as the road can stay closed by snow until May depending on the year. June and September strike a good balance between clear conditions and lighter crowds than July-August.
Good to know
Briançon, Europe’s highest city and a UNESCO-listed Vauban fortress town, offers a wide choice of accommodation and convenient access to the area’s other major passes (Galibier, Granon, Lautaret) to extend a col-hunting trip in the Hautes-Alpes.
