Parpaillon tunnel: modified itinerary and caution recommended!

The route between Guillestre and Barcelonnette usually passes through the Parpaillon tunnel, a highlight of the Route des Grandes Alpes ® Gravel itinerary... but unfortunately, the tunnel is currently closed due to a rockfall.

Until now, an alternative route via the ridge was proposed. From now on, we formally advise against it, even if you're pushing or carrying it!

👉 Testimonial from Thomas Guillaud (summer 2025):
"We crossed the ridge and it took us two hours. There's a semblance of a very narrow path up, but on the other side, no clear passage. Both sides are extremely steep. One wrong step, especially with a 20kg bike on our backs, and we'd have fallen. We came out of it drained, physically and morally."

The right option today: go over the Col de Valbelle (via Risoul) then the Col de Vars, following the existing trail network, and then descend by road to Jausiers. (=> etapes updated here)

Good news: GPX tracks are available and you can download them here:

• Guillestre-Vars stage (replaces Guillestre Crévoux)
• Vars-Barcelonnette stage(replaces Crévoux-Barcelonnette)

Please note: the interactive map, which illustrates the stage, will only be updated in a few days.

We're working on a more Gravel-typed alternative. More info to come in autumn 2025!

Stay safe, and enjoy the ride!