The pass has often constituted a decisive stage for competitors in the Tour de France© and Dauphiné Libéré© cycle races. Cycling from Samoëns to the summit, quite apart from being a physical challenge that requires a good level of fitness, provides an opportunity for some wonderful views of the valley, followed by the Mont-Blanc range from its most majestic angle... The road is closed to heavy goods vehicles and is not a major route for traffic, much to the delight of cyclists.
A few key facts:
The route described here starts from Samoëns and follows the D354 road.
Start altitude: 721 m
Altitude at the top of the pass: 1,691 m
Height climbed: 970 m over a distance of 13.1 km, i.e. an average gradient of 7.4%, but with stretches at more than 10%.
Difficulty: very difficult.
- Sport
Cycling over the Joux Plane pass
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In cycling circles, the Joux-Plane pass is reputed as being one of the six most challenging passes in the French mountains, along with the Galibier, Izoard, Alpe d'Huez, Mont Ventoux and Tourmalet ascents.
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Sport Cycling over the Joux Plane pass Samoëns
About
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For beginners, there is a road halfway up that takes you back to Samoëns along another route (via Les Turches and Les Combes).
Prices
Free access.
Period of practice
From 20/04 to 15/12.
The pass is closed in winter and used for Nordic skiing etc. The road may be closed for road works at other times of the year: check with the Tourist Office for information.
Contacts
Access
There are 3 possible starting points: Le Villard and Mathonex (the shortest route); the centre of the village (the main route); or La Flaconnière and Le Coudray (longest route).
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