Route des Grandes Alpes
France
A true Alpine spectacular, La Route des Grandes Alpes traverses the French Alps from the shores of Lake Geneva to the French Riviera, ascending and descending 16 mountain passes including some of the highest sealed roads in Europe. The route took almost 30 years to construct and passes through three national parks, Vanoise, Queyras, and Mercantour, with views of Mont Blanc from the opening passes.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Thonon-les-Bains
A spa town on Lake Geneva's south shore, the northernmost point of the route. A funicular drops from the clifftop old town to the port.
- Chamonix
At the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak at 4,808 m. The Aiguille du Midi cable car reaches 3,842 m; the Mer de Glace glacier retreats 90 m a year.
- Col de l'Iseran
At 2,770 m, the highest paved pass in the Alps and the centrepiece of the Grande Route. The views over the Vanoise massif from the summit chapel are extraordinary.
- Col du Galibier
The iconic Tour de France climb at 2,645 m. Twenty switchbacks descend into the Maurienne Valley; a memorial to Tour founder Henri Desgrange stands at the top.
- Briançon
Europe's highest city at 1,326 m, with UNESCO-listed Vauban ramparts designed for Louis XIV guarding the junction of five Alpine valleys.
- Barcelonnette
A remote Ubaye Valley town with a surprising Mexican soul: 19th-century emigrants returned from Mexico wealthy and built elaborate villas unique in the Alps.
- Menton
The Mediterranean finale, a pastel Baroque town on the Italian border where the Alps meet the sea. Jean Cocteau painted the Salle des Mariages here in 1957.
Where to Eat
- La Table de l'OursFrench Gourmet
An upscale restaurant in Val-d'Isère offering refined French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Le GavrocheSavoyard
A cozy eatery in Chamonix specializing in traditional Savoyard dishes like fondue and raclette.
- Le P'tit PolyteGastronomic
A Michelin-starred restaurant in Les Deux Alpes known for its innovative dishes and elegant ambiance.
- Le Petit NiceMediterranean Seafood
A renowned seafood restaurant in Menton offering fresh catches with a Mediterranean flair.
Things to Do
- Aiguille du MidiScenic Viewpoint
A cable car ride in Chamonix leading to panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif.
- Vanoise National ParkNational Park
A protected area near Col de l'Iseran offering hiking trails amidst alpine flora and fauna.
- Fort des TêtesHistoric Site
A 18th-century fort in Briançon, part of the UNESCO-listed Vauban fortifications.
- Jardin Exotique de MentonBotanical Garden
A lush garden in Menton showcasing a diverse collection of exotic plants and stunning sea views.
Travel advisory
Many of the 16 high passes, including the Col de l'Iseran at 2,770 m, are closed from October to June due to snow. Check pass conditions before departure and carry chains in shoulder season. Some sections are narrow with sheer drops and require confident mountain driving.