Rightly considered one of the most beautiful routes in Europe, the Route des Grandes Alpes winds its way through mountains and beautiful scenery. Almost 700 kilometers long, it links Thonon-les-Bains, on the shores of Lake Geneva, to Menton, on the Côte d’Azur. On the program: a complete crossing of the French Alps, dotted with mythical passes and some of the most spectacular scenery on the continent.
Europe’s most spectacular route is 4 hours from Paris
Created in 1909 by the Touring Club de France, the Route des Grandes Alpes is one of the most impressive routes in France. The route first climbs into the northern Alps, crossing impressive peaks such as the Col de l’Iseran (2,764 m, Europe’s highest road pass) and the Galibier (2,642 m). Further on, the scenery becomes rockier at the Col de l’Izoard, before descending to the green valleys of the Queyras. As you head south, the landscape changes: Mediterranean pines, colorful gorges and soft light herald the arrival of the Côte d’Azur.
Of course, this is one of the “classics” for bikers and cyclists, but it’s not just for two-wheeled enthusiasts. By car or van, you can discover it at your own pace, stopping off at villages, inns and nature parks. These include Beaufort, birthplace of the famous cheese, Bonneval-sur-Arc, listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, and Briançon, a fortified town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further south, charming villages such as Barcelonnette and Guillaumes are also worth a visit.
Between two passes, there’ s always a good reason to stop. Savoyard cheeses, Alpine charcuterie, local specialities: the route is also a culinary journey. In terms of heritage, you’ll come across military fortresses and Baroque churches, not to mention ski resorts that become lively mountain villages in summer.
In practical terms, the best time to set off is from June to October, as some passes are closed by snow for the rest of the year. For the entire route, you should allow 5 to 7 days by bike. From Paris, the easiest way to reach Thonon-les-Bains is by train (via Geneva) or by car.
A must for all lovers of beautiful scenery and adventure!
📍Location: Route des Grandes Alpes – From Thonon-les-Bains to Menton
📆 Dates: best between June and October