Famous route
Route des Grandes Alpes
The classic crossing of the French Alps, from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean over more than fifteen passes.
- Length
- about 700 km
- Passes
- 15+
- Suggested time
- 5–7 days
- Open
- Jun–Oct
Before you go
- The highest passes usually open in June and close in October.
- Fill up before each pass: fuel stations are rare up high.
- Allow extra time; average speeds on mountain roads are low.
North to south
From Thonon, the route climbs through the Chablais to the Mont Blanc massif, then over the Iseran, Galibier and Izoard towards Briançon. The southern half runs through Mercantour country before the long descent to Menton.
FAQs
Is the route suitable for motorhomes?
Yes, most of it is, though some passes are narrow and steep. Check your brakes, descend in low gear and avoid the busiest summer weekends.
