L'Alpe d'Huez Le Bourg-d'Oisans Mountain Road in the French Alps

The road runs between the villages of L'Alpe d'Huez and Le Bourg-d'Oisans in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. It crosses the Grandes Rousses mountain range, part of the larger Alps system. The route passes through the Parc national des Écrins (aire d’adhésion), a protected national park area known for its alpine landscapes and biodiversity. The road's elevation ranges from 716 meters (2,349 feet) at its lowest point to 1,840 meters (6,037 feet) at its highest, offering significant altitude variation typical of mountain roads in this region. An interactive map showing the road section discussed can be found at the end of this article.

The road is approximately 14.3 kilometers (8.9 miles) long and surfaced with asphalt of generally good quality, rated at 4.1 out of 5. It features a mix of one-lane sections (about 19%) and predominantly two-lane sections (about 72%). The width of the road is mostly wide (about 87%), with some middle-width sections (about 11%) and no narrow parts. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of 1.46 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme curviness. The maximum speed limit is 50 km/h (31 mph), reflecting the road's mountain setting and safety considerations. Approximately half of the route passes through inhabited areas, including several named waypoints such as Avenue des Jardins, Route de Basset et de Vieille Morte, and Route du Signal.

The road runs through the Parc national des Écrins (aire d’adhésion), a significant natural park known for its alpine environment and outdoor recreational opportunities. This national park is a key feature of the route and adds to its appeal for riders interested in nature and mountain landscapes. Additionally, the road offers access to viewpoints that provide panoramic views of the surrounding Grandes Rousses mountain range and the broader Alps. The Grandes Rousses are a prominent mountain range within the French Alps, known for their rugged terrain and alpine scenery.

Motorcyclists should be aware that the road is located within a national park area, which may have specific regulations and seasonal considerations. The road surface is generally in good condition, suitable for touring motorcycles. The moderate curviness and elevation changes provide an engaging riding experience without extreme technical challenges. Riders should observe the speed limit of 50 km/h (31 mph) and be prepared for sections passing through inhabited areas. There is no information indicating seasonal closures or tolls on this road, but riders are advised to verify current conditions before planning their trip.

This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, which highlights the route between L'Alpe d'Huez and Le Bourg-d'Oisans. For further details on the Parc national des Écrins, visit Parc national des Écrins. Information about the Grandes Rousses mountain range can be found at Grandes Rousses, and the broader Alps region is detailed at Alpen.