Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road

Embark on the Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road for an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of France. Starting in Albertville, you'll drive around 50km until you reach Flumet, with a recommended total time of 1 day. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the summer months, when you can witness the lush green fields and snow-capped mountains of the French Alps. The road is mostly in good condition, although some sections may be narrow and winding. Motorhomes should note that some roads may be inaccessible to them. Be aware that seasonal road closures may occur due to weather conditions. Despite these potential obstacles, this road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be completed on a moderate budget.

Albertville is a charming commune in the French Alps, located in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. It is an ideal starting point for a road trip, particularly one named "Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road". This route takes travelers through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region, with snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and stunning lakes. When visiting Albertville, visitors should take the time to explore the city and its surroundings. The old quarter of the city, with its narrow streets, is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and get a feel for the local culture. Additionally, the Church of Saint-Joseph and the Olympic Museum are two interesting sights that should not be missed. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Chambéry-Savoie Airport (CMF). There are several car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy to pick up the car and start the road trip at Albertville. Overall, Albertville is a great starting point for the "Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road" road trip. Visitors can explore the city and its surroundings before embarking on their journey, and the Chambéry-Savoie Airport provides easy access for travelers arriving by air.

Welcome to the Albertville-Ugine road trip stage! This 10km drive will take you less than an hour to complete, and you will be able to experience the beauty of the French countryside. Start your journey in Albertville, a charming town with a rich history. Be sure to visit the Church of Saint-Ours, an impressive building with a beautiful bell tower. You can also explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where you can admire the works of local and international artists. As you drive through the countryside, take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and lush forests. Keep an eye out for interesting historical sites, such as the ruins of the Château de la Marinière. Finally, you will arrive in Ugine, a picturesque mountain town. Here, you can visit the Château de la Chambre, a magnificent castle with a beautiful garden. The area is also known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Begin your road trip in Ugine, France and make your way to Col de L'Arpettaz, 15km away. This journey will take you less than an hour, and you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Be aware that some sections of the road may be too narrow for cars with camper trailers, and some may be closed seasonally. You'll also need to be aware of steep ramps and winding roads. Camping is not recommended in some sections. Once you reach Col de L'Arpettaz, you'll be able to enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and the beautiful valley below. This is the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a picnic before heading back to Ugine. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a 20km journey from Col de L'Arpettaz to Flumet, France, and discover the picturesque views of the Alps. The drive will take less than an hour, so make sure to take your time and appreciate the scenery! The road is not recommended for campers in some sections, so be sure to check before you go. In some sections, cars with camper trailers may not be able to access the road. Some sections may also be closed seasonally, so make sure to check before you go. There will be steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections, so pay attention to the road. Along the way, make sure to visit the quaint villages of La Thuile and La Cote-Saint-Andre. In La Thuile, explore the ruins of a medieval castle and the beautiful views of the valley. In La Cote-Saint-Andre, take a stroll through the town and admire the architecture. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

Situated near the French Alps, Flumet is a beautiful commune in the Haute-Savoie department of eastern France. It is the perfect ending point for a road trip along the stunning “Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road”. This picturesque drive through the mountains is a great way to take in the breathtaking views of the Alps. Flumet is a great place to explore, with a variety of interesting attractions, such as the Church of Saint-Grat, the oldest building in the village, and the Granges de la Balme, an old converted barn that serves as a cultural center. The town is also home to the Musée de la Faïence, which displays a range of local pottery and ceramics. Flumet is an ideal stop for nature lovers, with a number of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the nearby Grand-Bornand ski resort. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing and canoeing on the Arve and Fier rivers. If you’re planning to visit Flumet by air, the closest international airport is Geneva Airport (GVA). From there, it is a short drive to Flumet. Flumet is a charming commune situated in the beautiful French Alps. It is the ideal ending point for a road trip along the “Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road” and is the perfect place to explore with its many attractions and outdoor activities.

Before you set off

Embark on an enchanting journey along the Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road, a hidden gem nestled in the French Alps. This captivating Road Trip stretches approximately 50 kilometers from the historic town of Albertville to the picturesque village of Flumet. It's a perfect day-long escape into the heart of France's alpine wonderland.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The route unfolds through verdant valleys and alongside soaring peaks, offering a striking contrast between rustic charm and alpine grandeur. Travelers will be treated to stunning vistas of the Mont Blanc massif, the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe. Don't miss the opportunity to stop at the Col de l'Arpettaz itself, a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1,587 meters, which provides awe-inspiring views that are a photographer's delight. The historic towns of Albertville, known for hosting the 1992 Winter Olympics, and Flumet, with its traditional Savoyard architecture, are perfect for cultural exploration and a taste of local cuisine.

Best Time to Go:

To fully appreciate the splendor of the Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road, plan your Trip between June and September. During these months, the alpine meadows are lush and the weather is most favorable, offering clear, sunny days that are ideal for sightseeing and avoiding the wintertime Road closures.

Potential Risks:

Caution is advised when driving the Col de l'Arpettaz, especially due to its hairpin turns and some steep, narrow stretches that demand careful navigation. Larger vehicles, such as motorhomes, should be prepared for tighter maneuvers. Unexpected weather changes can occur even in summer, so it's wise to check forecasts and Road conditions before setting off.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Road's surface is generally well-maintained, making for a comfortable drive.
• Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate that the journey can be enjoyed without significant expenses, aside from fuel and any chosen activities or dining along the way.
• Accessibility is high, however, less experienced drivers should exercise extra caution and perhaps consider traveling with a companion who can share the driving duties.

A good choice for:

The Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road is an unforgettable adventure for those drawn to the allure of the great outdoors and the charm of French mountain life. With manageable risks and the promise of spectacular panoramas, this Road Trip is a splendid way to connect with the natural splendor and cultural richness of France's Alpine region.