Summer is approaching, and with it, the long-awaited season for the opening of the Alpine passes. For cyclists seeking challenges and breathtaking scenery, here is a complete guide to the opening dates of the main Alpine passes for 2025.

Pass Opening Dates

Alpine passes begin to open gradually from mid-April until the end of June. Here are some key dates for 2025:

• Cayolle Pass : Open (since April 25, 2025)
• Col de la Colombière : Open (since April 30, 2025)
• Joux-Plane Pass : Open (since April 30, 2025)
• Col de la Bonnette: Open (since May 14, 2025)
• Mont Cenis Pass : Open (since May 16, 2025)
• Cormet de Roselend : Open (since May 16, 2025)
• Little Saint Bernard Pass : May 23, 2025
• Col de la Croix de Fer : May 23, 2025
• Col de la Madeleine : May 28, 2025
• Col du Glandon : May 28, 2025
• Galibier Tunnel : May 28, 2025/Galibier Pass: June 8, 2025
• Col de l'Iseran : June 13, 2025
• Col d'Agnel: June 13, 2025

Please note that these are tentative dates and may change depending on the weather conditions encountered in the mountains.

Types of Collars

The Alpine passes vary in altitude and difficulty, offering challenges suited to all levels of cyclists. Here are some of the most iconic passes:

• Col de l'Iseran : The highest pass in the Alps, reaching an altitude of 2,770 meters. We strongly recommend taking the route via Bonneval sur Arc for its wilder character and also because it's less dangerous (there's much more traffic from Bourg st Maurice and the first 25 km aren't particularly interesting).
• Galibier Pass : A legendary Tour de France mountain pass reaching an altitude of 2,642 meters. Whether you climb it from Valloire or Lautaret, you won't be disappointed!
• Bonette Pass : The highest paved mountain pass in Europe, thanks in particular to its summit at 2,802 meters. A must-see in France for discovering new territories in the Southern Alps.
• Col de l'Izoard: A superb mountain pass in the Hautes Alpes, known for its lunar landscape, especially on the Arvieux side with the famous “deserted house” and its altitude of 2,360 meters.

Tips for Cyclists

• Preparation : Make sure you are well prepared physically and mentally to tackle the mountain passes.
• Equipment : Wear clothing appropriate for the changing weather conditions in the mountains. A small handlebar bag to carry a windbreaker, a pair of gloves, a neck warmer, and/or arm warmers will be very useful. Especially at the start of the season, it can be 25 degrees Celsius in the valley but less than 10 degrees Celsius at the summit.
• Security : Respect road safety rules and be careful, especially on downhill slopes.At the opening, stones may fall, melting snow may make the road slippery, and you don't want to run over a marmot :)

Events Not to Be Missed

• Galibier Pass : June 30 and July 17, 2025.

• Granon Pass : July 1st and July 16th, 2025.

• Col de l'Izoard : July 3 and August 7, 2025.

• Col Agnel : July 4 and September 7, 2025.

Conclusion

The opening of the Alpine passes is an event eagerly awaited by all cyclists. Whether you're an experienced rider or an amateur looking for new challenges, the Alpine passes offer breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences. Prepare yourself, equip yourself well, and enjoy every moment on the road.

For more information on road cycling clothing suitable for your mountain adventures, visit our website and discover our special collection for cyclists.