Col du Chaussy et de la Madeleine via the Montvernier lacets

The Itinéraire alternates between technical sections, smoother sections and authentic village crossings. It's a steady but well-balanced circuit, which is as appealing for its sporting interest as for the richness of its Alpine scenery.
This demanding itinerary is aimed at lovers of complete alpine tours, combining a series of passes, a variety of landscapes and immersion in the authentic Maurienne. It takes in two emblematic peaks: the wild and confidential Col du Chaussy (1,533 m), and the Col de la Madeleine (2,000 m), a must on any major alpine climb.
The route begins with an ascent of the emblematic Montvernier lacets. The route then gradually widens and joins the road leading to La Madeleine. The steady but sustained ascent passes through the resort of Saint-François-Longchamp, offering a number of restart zones before arriving at the pass. At this highest point, the panorama is remarkable, with unobstructed views of the Belledonne and Lauzière massifs, and on a clear day, a spectacular view of Mont Blanc.
The descent is via Montgellafrey, via a little-used secondary road, ideal for taking full advantage of the relief and natural setting. The return to La Chambre, then Sainte-Marie-de-Cuines, takes place on more rolling roads, before reaching Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne.

Itinerary

Distance : 79.5 km
Change in altitude : 2398 m
Change in altitude (uphill) : 2398 m
Change in altitude (downhill) : 2398 m
Type of itinerary : Boucle
Marked itinerary : Non disponible
Map references : TOP IGN 3433

Further information

Publics : Cyclists, Level black - very hard