Cycling day trip from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Briançon

Get ready for a true Alpine adventure! This classic cycling route takes you from the charming town of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, famously known as a gateway to some of the Tour de France’s legendary mountain passes, to historic Briançon, Europe’s highest city. Covering just over 93 km, you’ll rack up plenty of elevation (over 4,300 meters of climbing!), with the route hitting awe-inspiring altitudes up to 2,634 meters.

The ride rolls mostly along quiet roads mixed with some sections on busier stretches and scenic tracks, so it’s a great mix for those who love both smooth tarmac and a hint of adventure. Roughly half the surfaces are unclassified, so expect a couple of surprises, but most climbs (including the epic Col du Galibier if you follow the iconic route) are paved.

You’ll be surrounded by dramatic Alpine scenery for much of the journey. Once you roll into Briançon, reward yourself with a stroll among its Vauban fortifications and old cobbled streets. This ride is a real bucket list challenge for any seasoned cyclist!