Road information – 23 June 2022
Following the violent thunderstorms and heavy rain that swept through the region, a major mudflow occurred on the RD120 between Culoz and Grand Colombier and occupied the entire roadway.
The road is therefore closed to traffic until further notice.
Diversions have been set up via Anglefort and the RD120a.
The Grand Colombier, one of the hardest climb of the Tour de France
Memorable climb of the Tour de France in the 2012, 2016 and 2017 editions and final ascent of 2020 edition 15th stage of the Tour de France, every cyclist that has been to the top agrees that the Grand Colombier is one of the hardest climb in France, harder than Alpes D’Huez and comparable to Mont Ventoux. Climbing it is a real challenge for cyclists with 18 km from Culoz, 1262 m of elevation and several parts at 14%.
Located 30 min away from Aix-Les-Bains, 1h from Geneva and Annecy, 1h30 from Lyon, there are 4 different ways to reach the top of this Hors catégorie climb. The most iconic road starts from Culoz, with its famous hairpins and the most difficult road starts from Artemare through Virieu-le-Petit with slope of 22% at its steepest, and 19% during 3 km.
More about the 4 different roads of the Grand Colombier.
Events around the Grand Colombier
All events and races can be found on our website. More information
Car free days of the Grand Colombier, 4 events you should not miss in summer!
The road from Culoz to the top is closed for cars and motorbikes and only accessible on bikes one Saturday every month from June to September. No registration and no entry fees are required.
Coffee is offered by the tourist information centre at Maison du vélo in Culoz, food and diplomas are offered at the top of the climb.
In 2022, car free cycling days will be held on Saturdays 11 June, 9 July, 13 August et 10 September.
Are you mad?
Are you up for a really though challenge?
Do you think you have what it takes to climb two, three or even four times the Grand Colombier through different roads on a single day?
Then you are ready to join the international brotherhood of the « Fêlés du Grand Colombier » (Bonkers of the Grand Colombier)
More information here
Lacets du Grand Colombier © CC Bugey Sud – Laurent Madelon