Col du Glandon Mountain Pass Motorcycle Route in the French Alps

The road section discussed here is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, traversing the French Alps. It crosses several mountain ranges including the Massif des Arves, Chaîne de Belledonne, Alpes du Dauphiné, and the broader Alps. The route runs from the area near Pont de La Chal and Pont du Pied des Voûtes to the town of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, which lies approximately 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles) from the road's end point. This mountain pass road is situated at elevations ranging from 543 meters (1,785 feet) to 1,915 meters (6,283 feet), with the highest point being the Col du Glandon pass itself at 1,924 meters (6,312 feet). The road runs along several viewpoints, offering riders opportunities to pause and appreciate the alpine environment. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The Col du Glandon route extends approximately 19.3 kilometers (12 miles) and is surfaced with asphalt of moderate quality, rated around 3.6 out of 5. The road is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating close to 2 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy. It features a mix of one-lane sections (about 37%) and two-lane sections (about 53%), with the remaining portions unspecified. The width varies along the route, with narrow sections making up about 32%, medium width about 41%, and wide sections approximately 26%. Around 27% of the road passes through inhabited areas, which may require additional caution. Speed limits vary between 50 km/h (31 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph), reflecting the road's mountain pass nature and safety considerations. The road crosses the Col du Glandon mountain pass, a well-known alpine pass in the region, which is a key highlight for motorcyclists seeking elevation and challenging riding conditions.

The Col du Glandon is the primary mountain pass on this route, standing at an elevation of 1,924 meters (6,312 feet). It is a popular destination for motorcyclists and cyclists alike, known for its alpine views and challenging ascents. The road skirts and crosses several mountain ranges including the Massif des Arves and Chaîne de Belledonne, both notable for their rugged terrain and natural beauty. Along the route, riders will find multiple viewpoints that provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding alpine landscape. These viewpoints are ideal for rest stops and photography. The Massif des Arves, in particular, is a significant mountain massif in the region, offering a distinctive backdrop to the ride. More information about the Col du Glandon can be found on its Wikipedia page, and details about the Massif des Arves are available on its Wikipedia page.

The Col du Glandon road is a mountain pass route and is subject to seasonal closures, particularly during winter months when snow and ice make the road unsafe for motor vehicles. Riders should verify current road conditions before planning a trip, especially outside the typical summer riding season. There are no specific event-related closures reported, but local conditions can vary. The road does not currently have tolls or entrance fees, but riders should be aware that toll policies can change. For up-to-date information on road tolls and fees in France, the official French government transport website provides comprehensive details.

The Col du Glandon mountain pass road offers motorcyclists a moderately challenging ride through the French Alps with a mix of curvy asphalt sections and varying road widths. The route's elevation gain and multiple viewpoints make it an attractive option for riders seeking alpine experiences. The road's proximity to Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne provides access to local amenities and services. Riders should prepare for seasonal closures and variable road conditions. An interactive map of the route is available below for detailed navigation and planning.