Cycling the Lacets de Montvernier: A Ribbon of Road Through the Alps
Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, the Lacets de Montvernier is a cycling climb like no other. Famous for its photogenic series of 18 hairpin bends packed into just 3.4 km, this climb is a must-ride for any road cyclist with a taste for switchbacks and sweeping views.
The Climb at a Glance
- Distance: 3.4 km
- Average gradient: 8.2%
- Elevation gain: 279 meters
- Location: Savoie, France
- Road surface: Smooth tarmac
- Difficulty: Moderate
What makes this climb special isn’t just its stats—it’s the engineering marvel of how it coils up the cliffside, carved tightly into the rock. From the valley floor to the village of Montvernier, each turn offers stunning perspectives of the Maurienne Valley.
A Cyclist’s Experience
The climb begins just outside Pontamafrey-Montpascal. From the very first bend, you’re rewarded with views that rival any postcard. The gradient is steady but manageable—no brutal ramps here, just a consistent effort. The road is narrow but well maintained, and though it looks intimidating in photos, it’s a relatively short and enjoyable climb even for intermediate cyclists.
Featured in the Tour de France
The Lacets gained global fame when it appeared in the 2015 and 2022 editions of the Tour de France. Though not the toughest climb in the Alps, it’s certainly one of the most iconic. Stage 18 of the 2015 Tour featured the lacets shortly before the finale, making for a dramatic and scenic ascent.
Practical Tips
- Best time to ride: Late spring to early autumn. Mornings are quieter.
- Traffic: Light, but watch for descending cyclists and occasional cars.
- Photography: There’s a viewing point on the opposite cliff that captures the full lacework of the road—a great spot for drone shots or telephoto photos.
- Nearby attractions: Don’t miss the nearby town of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, a hub for cyclists with great cafes and gear shops.
More Information & Resources
- Lacets de Montvernier on climbbybike.com
- Strava segment for the climb
- Tourism page: Maurienne Valley
Final Thoughts
The Lacets de Montvernier might not be the longest or steepest climb in the Alps, but it’s one of the most memorable. It’s where artistry meets sport—a ribbon of asphalt that dances up the rock face, delivering both a satisfying physical challenge and a breathtaking Alpine experience.
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