Valloire to Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne via Col du Télégraphe Motorcycle Route

The road section discussed here is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, connecting the villages of Valloire and Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne. This route traverses the French Alps, crossing the Massif des Cerces mountain range and skirting the Massif de la Vanoise. The road runs through the Combe des Épinées valley for a portion of its length and reaches elevations up to 1,566 meters (5,138 feet) at the Col du Télégraphe mountain pass. The area is known for its alpine terrain and multiple viewpoints that attract visitors. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The route from Valloire to Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne covers approximately 16.8 kilometers (10.4 miles) of asphalt road. The surface quality is moderate, rated around 3.4 out of 5, indicating some wear but generally suitable for motorcycling. The road is mostly two lanes wide (about 97%), with a small portion being single lane. Width varies along the route, with over half the road being wide enough for comfortable riding, while narrow and medium-width sections make up the remainder.

The road is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating of 1.67 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy. Speed limits vary between 30 km/h (19 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph), reflecting changes in road geometry and inhabited areas. Approximately 39% of the route passes through settlements or inhabited zones, requiring cautious riding. The elevation gain is significant, starting at 721 meters (2,365 feet) near Valloire and reaching the Col du Télégraphe at 1,566 meters (5,138 feet).

This mountain pass road offers a mix of gentle curves and sharper bends, suitable for riders looking for a moderately challenging alpine ride. The route also features several viewpoints that provide opportunities to stop and appreciate the surrounding mountain scenery.

The highlight of this route is the Col du Télégraphe, a mountain pass at 1,566 meters (5,138 feet) elevation. It is a well-known pass in the region and part of the Tour de France cycling route. The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding Massif des Cerces and the broader Alps. More information about the pass can be found on its Wikipedia page.

Along the route, riders will find multiple viewpoints that provide excellent vantage points for photography and rest. The road runs through the Combe des Épinées valley, adding to the diversity of landscapes encountered. The Massif des Cerces itself is a notable mountain range crossed by this road, with additional proximity to the Vanoise massif, enhancing the alpine experience.

The road surface is asphalt with moderate quality, so riders should be prepared for some uneven patches but generally good traction. The road width and lane configuration allow for safe overtaking in most sections, though caution is advised in narrow or single-lane stretches. Speed limits vary and must be observed, especially in inhabited areas where the limit drops to 30 km/h (19 mph).

There are no known tolls or entrance fees for this route, but riders should verify current conditions before travel as toll policies can change. The road is open year-round but may be subject to seasonal closures or restrictions during winter months due to snow and ice, common in alpine passes. Checking local traffic and weather updates is recommended before planning a ride.

For more detailed information about the Col du Télégraphe and the surrounding Massif des Cerces, riders can consult the Massif des Cerces Wikipedia page. The nearby Vanoise massif is also documented on its English Wikipedia page.

An interactive map of the road section from Valloire to Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne is provided below to assist with route planning and navigation.