Cycling the Col du Glandon: Complete Climb Guide

This breathtaking climb snakes its way through Alpine meadows, up and over reservoirs and past crystal blue water lakes.

Cycling the Col du Glandon: Overview

Cycling the Col du Glandon is no ordinary ride – it’s a rite of passage for any rider looking to test their mettle against one of the French Alps' most legendary climbs.

Winding its way through jaw-dropping alpine landscapes, this climb throws down the gauntlet with fierce gradients and hairpin bends that have long challenged the world’s greatest riders. You’ll start to feel the buzz of the Tour de France as soon as your wheels hit the tarmac. The Col du Glandon has carved out a prestigious legacy in the race since first appearing in 1947, where it debuted alongside the Col de la Croix de Fer. With over 20 appearances, including 14 times as a categorised climb for the King of the Mountains, it’s become a defining feature of the Tour’s toughest stages. The Glandon is often chosen not just for its severity but for its power to shape the general classification. It’s the kind of climb that leaves a mark on both legs and legacy.

It's an incredible climb but i’s not all suffering. You’ll be rewarded every pedal stroke with cinematic views of rugged peaks and glacial lakes and streams that shimmer in the alpine sun.

Location of the Col du Glandon

This high mountain pass is located in the Dauphine Alps in the Savoie region of France. It’s part of the famous La Marmotte sportive and links Bourg d’Oissans with La Chambre on the other side of the Glandon and Croix de Fer.

Why Cycle the Col du Glandon?

This epic and challenging climb is spectacular. You will ride high into the French mountains with blissful green meadows and cows for company. The higher you get, the quieter it becomes before you ride past the streams and lakes at the top of the climb.

For an epic day you can combine this with a loop including Croix de Fer, ride onwards to the Telegraphe and Galibier, or simply turn back on yourself and ride this together with the mighty Alpe d’Huez. If you attempt the Marmotte route, you will clock up over 5,000 metres in 174km of road! The epic combinations of climbs in this area are endless.

Col du Glandon Climb Profile and Route Options

Cycling Col du Glandon comprises a 27km ride with an average gradient, not to be underestimated, of 4.8%. Many who ride the Marmotte will make the mistake of attacking the initial slopes of the Glandon at a speed that is too fast and then struggle later on. Remembering to pace yourself is key, as the gradient increases to 7-10% for 6km through dense trees after you pass Allemond.

Combined with the increase in gradient, you will contend with the wind as it channels down from the mountain tops. A good tip is to keep checking your power meter or heart rate monitor to ensure you aren’t exerting yourself too much in the early stages. There is a fast descent as you head to the River d’Allemont, followed by a steep climb on the other side. There are a few descents like this dotted about which will provide some respite for your weary legs.

The views you will see during the ascent are spectacular, especially as you ride past the stunning crystal blue waters of Lac de Grand Maison, tackling a couple of challenging hairpins before summiting. However, don’t let the beauty of the surroundings distract you during the descent off the Glandon, which is technical and fast so that for safety reasons, it’s neutralised during the actual Marmotte.

Route from La Chambre

Climbing the Col du Glandon from La Chambre is a true alpine adventure. You’ll tackle 22km of relentless ascent, rising to a height of 1,924m with an average gradient of 6.8%, and some sections kicking up to a lung-busting 15%. It’s a proper test – especially in the final 3km, where the road ramps up and your legs will feel every bit of the challenge. But the payoff? Pure magic. You’ll be surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, with sweeping views and, if you’re lucky, the surreal sight of paragliders soaring above the glacial lake below. When you reach the summit, a welcoming hut offers the perfect spot for a breather and some well-earned refreshments. And if you're not quite done yet, the road continues – turn left and ride on to the iconic Col de la Croix de Fer. It’s a climb that’ll push you, inspire you and leave you buzzing long after your wheels have stopped turning. Epic doesn’t even come close.

Route from Bourg d’Oisans via Croix de Fer

This is a truly colossal day in the saddle – the kind of ride that defines an alpine cycling adventure. Your journey begins with the legendary Col du Galibier, a monster of a climb that stands tall among cycling’s greatest icons. As you ascend its towering slopes, every hairpin bend and snow-dusted vista reminds you why this climb has etched itself into Tour de France folklore. The descent into Valloire offers a brief chance to catch your breath, spinning through a charming mountain town that feels like something out of a postcard.

But don’t get too comfortable – next up is the eastern approach to the Col de la Croix de Fer, and it means business. This side of the mountain serves up a punishing mix of gradients and rhythm-breaking turns, with scenery that flips between wild and wonderful. As you grind your way higher, alpine pastures and jagged peaks open up around you, lifting your spirits just when you need it most. When you finally reach the summit, don’t call it a day just yet. A right turn leads you to one final challenge – the Col du Glandon. It’s only a short hop from here, but after everything you’ve tackled, it feels like a victory lap with one last sting in the tail. This isn’t just a ride; it’s a full-blown alpine epic that will push your limits and leave you absolutely buzzing.

Things to Do Off the Bike Nearby

There is a café stop at around 10km up at Le Rivier d’Allemont. This is the last water stop before the top of Glandon so if you are continuing onwards, don’t forget to fill up there. In the village of Allemond there is also a boulangerie for a pain au chocolat to keep you going.

If you are looking for somewhere to sit down and eat, try the Chalet du Glandon in Saint-Colomban-des-Villards, at the intersection of Col Du Glandon and Col de la Croix. It is popular with cycling groups – especially during the summer months when you can sit on the terrace shaded by umbrellas. Alternatively there is a little kiosk at the top of the Glandon. If you are heading to the Croix de Fer summit after the Glandon, it is only 3km to the iron cross.

Tips for Cycling the Col du Glandon

Taking on the Col du Glandon is no small feat, but with the right approach, it can be one of the most rewarding climbs you’ll ever ride. Here are some top tips to help you conquer this alpine giant:

Start early. The climb can get hot in summer and the earlier you ride, the quieter the roads and the more serene the scenery. Pacing is everything. The Glandon doesn’t have a steady gradient – it pitches and rolls, so don’t burn your matches too early. Save energy for those final, steeper kilometres. Pack layers. Weather in the Alps changes quickly, especially at altitude. What feels warm at the base can turn chilly at the summit. A windproof gilet or lightweight jacket is essential for the descent.

Refuel properly. There aren’t many options to stop and stock up, so make sure you’re carrying enough food and water. The hut at the summit is a good place to grab a bite and soak in the views. Check your gearing. With gradients nudging 15% in parts, compact gearing or a wide cassette can make all the difference between grinding and gliding. And don’t forget to look up. The scenery is outrageously beautiful – think glacial lakes, jagged peaks, and wide-open alpine meadows. It’s all too easy to get caught up in the suffering and miss the magic around you.

Other Great French Cycling Climbs

If you're looking to ride some other spectacular French road cycling routes, the iconic Mont Ventoux is not to be missed whilst Alpe d'Huez is within striking distance of the Col du Glandon climb.

The Alps are normally a Tour de France hunting ground so check out where this year's Etape du Tour goes and you may have the option of ticking off a number of classic climbs. Alternatively,