Valloire

Suggestions for cycling loops around Valloire

Our major mountain passes

The col du Galibier, at an altitude of 2642 meters, is one of the most emblematic passes in the French Alps. Famous for its imposing scenery and slopes, it is a veritable symbol of cycling culture. For over a century, it has attracted cyclists from all over the world, offering a physical and mental challenge. It's an essential part of the Tour de France, often marking the decisive stages of the competition.

The Col du Télégraphe, stands at an altitude of 1566 meters, offering spectacular panoramic views over the surrounding valleys. Although less famous than the Galibier, the Télégraphe is nonetheless an essential part of the Alpine cycling route. Its ascent, often combined with that of the Galibier, represents a formidable challenge for cyclists, contributing to its renown in the cycling world. The pass bears the emblematic name of Fort du Télégraphe. Built between 1885 and 1893, the site is one of the relays of the Chappe aerial telegraph on the imperial Paris-Milan line.
 

Events around cycling

The 2024 summer season starts with a cycling event and ends with a cycling event.

• Galibier Challenge: take on the challenge of the col du Galibier on June 1 and 2, 2024 at this high-mountain cyclosportive. Challenge yourself on the mythical slopes of the Galibier and discover breathtaking snow-covered landscapes in the heart of the Alps. The finish at the pass surrounded by walls of snow is grandiose!
• Maurienne Gravel Experience: on June 1, 2024, discover Valloire through this unique Gravel event. Ride two routes and enjoy a day dedicated to Gravel and conviviality.
• Le Galibier aux Vélos: do you dream of doing the col du Galibier without having to worry about cars and motorcycles? Then come and take part in this event on June 27, July 18 and August 8, 2024. Enjoy a day dedicated to cycling in a friendly atmosphere.
• Cyclosportive Le Pape Marmotte Granfondo Alpes: from Saturday June 29 to Sunday June 30, 2024, come and cheer on the riders of this prestigious event. On the program, 186 km across the Alps' passes, including the Glandon, the Telegraph, the Galibier, the Lautaret and l'Alpe d’Huez.
• Arrival of the 4th stage of the Tour de France: See you in Valloire on July 2, 2024 for the arrival of this historic stage of the Tour de France. Come and cheer on the professional riders as they cross the col du Galibier and enjoy the passage of the tour caravan. A cycling highlight for the start of summer.

Coming back in winter

Winter in Valloire is synonymous with varied pleasures on the 160 Km of ski runs and a friendly, festive atmosphere. The village resort appeals to both experienced winter sports enthusiasts and families. Downhill skiing takes pride of place on the resort's ski slopes, while Nordic and cross-country skiers can explore the marked trails through snow-covered landscapes. Biathlon, giant zip lines, snowshoeing and Mountain Karting offer a variety of activities for all levels and tastes. Valloire also offers the chance to discover its rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as its comforting mountain gastronomy.

 

Other events

Valloire, a dynamic destination, offers a rich calendar of major events in both summer and winter. Between the International Straw and Hay Sculpture Competition, baroque (Valloire Baroque) and rock (Le Pic Sonne) music festivals, prestigious sporting competitions like the Galibier-Thabor Trail, as well as traditional festivals and patronal celebrations... Valloire is the place where culture, sport and conviviality meet.

In winter, the resort is transformed into a white paradise from December onwards with the Magical Christmas festivities. January sees the events that have made the resort internationally famous: the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Competitions. Downhill skiing, Nordic skiing, biathlon and other winter activities offer visitors unforgettable moments, enriched by the warm atmosphere of the chalets and après-ski entertainment.
 

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Testimonials

Here we are, week in Valloire over and once again this year a real pleasure to stroll around, hiking, drinking a good beer (Galibier of course! Matchut obviously my favorite) with a 360° view) listening to Rock music and many other pleasures and good times! See you next year! Virginie

The Col du Galibier, my first big climb by bike from Valloire, to see the Tour de France
I was 14 ...and a ratty bike...But what a memory arriving up there, between 2 walls of snow!!!. Claude

Beautiful mountain village, beautiful hike nice guides who shared with us their love for this beautiful heritage I still have a memory as blue as the lakes! Edith

Very beautiful region, very beautiful resort, there's plenty to do even in the summer, hiking, zip-lining, mountain kard etc.... welcoming and friendly shopkeepers, friendly restaurant where you can eat very well, I loved a lot of memories shared with family during 15j unfortunately ended Saturday. See you soon in Valloire. Christelle

We spent 2 superb weeks with the ascent of 2 peaks to 3000m and the Galibier by bike 🚵‍♀️, can't wait to go back this winter. Dan

FAQ

• What world-class events is Valloire the only French resort to organize? 
  Valloire is the only one to organize 3 original competitions: The International Ice Sculpture Competition, The International Snow Sculpture Competition and The International Straw and Hay Sculpture Competition. The winter competitions take place in January and the Straw and Hay competition is held at the end of June.

   

• Valloire is surrounded by two internationally renowned mountain passes, which ones? 
  The col du Galibier and the col du Télégraphe frame Valloire.

   

• Has Valloire ever been a stage for the Tour de France? 
  Valloire has been a Tour de France stage town 3 times (2024 included), but the riders know the destination well as it has been crossed 60 times since the Tour de France was founded, the col du Galibier and the col du Télégraphe among the flagship passes.
   

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