Col de l'Iseran Route Val-d'Isère to Bonneval-sur-Arc Motorcycle Ride

The road section discussed here is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, running between the villages of Val-d'Isère and Bonneval-sur-Arc. This route traverses the heart of the French Alps, crossing the Col de l'Iseran, which at 2,770 m (9,088 ft) is one of the highest paved mountain passes in Europe. The road passes through the Parc national de la Vanoise, a protected national park known for its alpine landscapes and diverse wildlife. The route also skirts and crosses several mountain ranges including the Ruitor Massif, Gruppo del Charbonnel, and the Massif de la Vanoise. Along the way, it follows river valleys such as the Vallon de l'Iseran and Combe du Laisinant, and runs adjacent to rivers including the Ruisseau de la Lenta, L'Isère, and L'Arc. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The road is approximately 29 kilometers (18 miles) long and is surfaced with asphalt of generally good quality, rated at about 4.1 out of 5. It is a mountain pass road with a moderate level of curviness, featuring a mix of gently curved and more twisty sections. The road width varies, with most of it being of medium width (about 70%) and a significant portion wide enough for comfortable two-way traffic (about 26%). Nearly half of the route consists of single-lane sections (49%), with two-lane stretches making up about 29%. The road passes through inhabited areas for roughly 11% of its length, primarily near the start and end points in Val-d'Isère and Bonneval-sur-Arc.

Elevation along the route ranges from 1,784 m (5,856 ft) at the lowest point to 2,758 m (9,049 ft) near the summit of the Col de l'Iseran. Speed limits vary along the road, with maximum speeds of 30, 50, 70, and 80 km/h (19, 31, 43, and 50 mph) depending on the section. The road is well maintained and suitable for motorcycle touring, offering a mix of technical riding challenges and high-altitude alpine scenery.

The route passes through the Parc national de la Vanoise, a significant natural reserve that protects alpine flora and fauna. This national park is a highlight for riders interested in nature and mountain landscapes. The road also runs along several rivers, including the Ruisseau de la Lenta and the Isère, which contribute to the valley landscapes visible from the road.

The Col de l'Iseran itself is a major attraction, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and serving as a notable viewpoint. The pass is a popular destination for motorcyclists and cyclists alike, known for its alpine environment and challenging ascent. More information about the national park can be found on the Parc national de la Vanoise website, and details about the pass are available on its Wikipedia page.

The Col de l'Iseran road is typically closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and avalanche risk, making it accessible mainly from late spring to early autumn. Motorcyclists should verify seasonal opening dates before planning a trip. There are no tolls or entrance fees specifically for this road; however, conditions may change, so it is advisable to check local traffic and park regulations prior to travel.

For updated information on road closures and tolls in France, visitors can consult official French road and transport websites or the France tourism portal.

This mountain route from Val-d'Isère to Bonneval-sur-Arc via the Col de l'Iseran offers motorcyclists a challenging and rewarding ride through some of the highest alpine terrain in Europe. The road's moderate curviness, good surface quality, and varying widths require attentive riding, especially at higher elevations. The passage through the Parc national de la Vanoise and proximity to alpine rivers and valleys add to the experience, making it a notable route for riders interested in mountain landscapes and natural environments.

Riders should prepare for variable weather conditions and seasonal closures. The route's elevation and alpine setting mean temperatures can be significantly cooler than in the valleys. An interactive map of the road section is provided below for route planning and navigation.