The Galibier Pass

The story of the pass
The Galibier pass is a natural frontier between two alpine valleys. It seems that it has been used for years since prehistory, first by the army , then by travellers.
A road, suitable for motor vehicles, is open in 1879, then the tunnel (1891).
After being closed during about 30 years, this tunnel re-open in 2002.
The first Tour de France run through the Galibier on July 10th 1911. From this date the Tour de France has known some of its most famous stages in this mountain pass. 

The Galibier pass climb from Valloire:
Departure: 1430 m - Arrival: 2645 m
Length: 17 km - Elevation in level: 1215 m
Average %: 7.2% - maximum %: 12%

The Telegraph Pass

Reaching its highest point at 1566 m, the name of the Telegraph pass has its origins in the fort built between 1885 and 1893. It surrounds the Maurienne Valley, and in the past, it was a major defensive place to protect the city of St Michel de Maurienne and the military road of the Galibier.
Even if it is less famous than its neighbours, the Telegraph pass is a beautiful and not so easy climb.

The Telegraph pass climb from St Michel de Maurienne:
Departure : 710 m - Arrival : 1566 m
Length : 11.8 km - Elevation in level : 856 m
Average %: 7.3 % - maximum % : 9.7 %

La route des Grandes Alpes

This is a legendary route providing an excellent way of meeting locals, nature and having a look at the high peaks.It is a beautiful itinerary from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean sea through the wild Alps.Valloire and the Galibier pass are a major stopping place on this road.

A historical road, an invitation to discover
In 1910, the Touring Club de France initiates works on the " Route des Grandes Alpes ". The route meanders along mountain roads for almost 600 km. Crossing 16 passes, this road is one of the most famous in Europe. Some of this passes are the places of Tour de France feats...

Valloire, a stopping place you can't get away from
Located between two mountain passes (the Télégraphe and the Galibier), Valloire offers a great holiday. It is an authentic traditional village built around its baroque church...

For more information:
> Guide Gallimard Route des Grandes Alpes
> Association "Route des Grandes Alpes"
   BP 227 - F 38019 Grenoble cedex
   Web site: www.routedesgrandesalpes.com

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