
GRANFONDO
Distance: 110 km
Elevation gain: 3,350 m
800 entries available
Entry fee: €50–€60
Starting in Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne, the Galibier Challenge is a high-mountain cycling sportive. The route winds through the French Alps, climbing the Col du Télégraphe before reaching the legendary Col du Galibier in Savoie.
PROFILE

MAP
PRESENTATION
The Galibier-Challenge offers a demanding route of 115 km with around 3,500 m of elevation gain, featuring four climbs including two legendary Alpine passes.
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Orelle Ascent (900 m)
The race opens with a 6 km climb from Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne, alternating between false flats and ramps at 7–8%, the perfect way to stretch out the peloton. -
Col de Beau Plan (1,490 m)
Still a hidden gem, this 8 km climb features irregular gradients with ramps up to 9%, creating an early selection. -
Col du Télégraphe (1,566 m)
A true Alpine classic, the Télégraphe rises for 12 km at 7% average gradient. A steady but demanding climb, it marks the gateway to the high mountains. -
Col du Galibier (2,642 m)
A monument of world cycling, the Galibier stretches over 18 km from Valloire, with the final 8 km above 2,000 m altitude. Gradients rarely dip below 8%, with long, relentless ramps leading to the summit. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Cerces, Grand Galibier, La Meije, the Écrins, and even Mont Blanc on clear days.
For more safety and pleasure, the time and therefore the rankings will be stopped at the top of the Col du Galibier. The return to Saint Michel de Maurienne will be free. The distance of 110 kilometers includes the descent to the valley.
Depending on the snow conditions at the Col du Galibier, which could lead to a delay in snow removal or a significant risk of avalanche, the services of the Departmental Council and the Prefecture may require the organizers to finish the race at the Galibier tunnel. , or 1 kilometer below the pass. This request can be made up to 24 hours before the event.
Aids stations
Col du Télégraphe - km 12
Plan Lachat - km 27
(liquids only)
Col du Galibier - km 35
The Climb
Col de Beau Plan
11 km | 732 m elevation gain |
6,5% average gradient
Col du Télégraphe
12 km | 851 m elevation gain |
7% average gradient
Col du Galibier
18km | 1239 m elevation gain |
7% average gradient
Col du Télégraphe
4,7 km | 157 m elevation gain |
3,4% de moyenne

Stop Chrono
Timing and rankings finish at the Col du Galibier – km 76


