We had been told that it was a difficult climb to The Cormet de Roselend but that it would be worth it for the views. And, they weren’t wrong. The route is 19km of climbing from Bourg St Maurice at an average of 8%, but on the way you pass through the most stunning valley with glaciers in the back ground.
On the way up we passed the BMC team going the other way, doing a recce of the stage for the Tour de France. Richie Porte was with them so Pete looked him up on Strava and, much to my amazement, his ride was on there. Further on in the stage, climbing to La Rosiere, Richie had got a King of the Mountain by averaging 17.7mph up the section – wow!
In comparison, our very slow climb continued up twisty switchbacks until we reached the peak at 1968m.
And then the road dropped down the other side to reveal another vast and flower filled valley and then the bluest/greenest lake you could imagine.
We stopped for a lovely lunch of a shared omelette and chips while taking in the views.
And then we went to explore the huge barrage (dam) that controls the lake’s water level.
So now just a short climb 5km climb back to the peak and then the fun begins for the downhill all the way back to Bourg.
What a stunning ride. Our recommendation had proved to be spot on! Thanks Emily and David.
