Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road

Explore the breathtaking views of the French Alps with the Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road. Starting in the town of Thones and ending in Cluses, this 42 km journey will take you through the towns of Saint Jean de Sixt and Col de la Colombière. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning scenery, including lush forests, rolling hills and snow-capped mountains. The best time of year to take this drive is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the roads are in excellent condition. However, be aware that seasonal road closures due to inclement weather may occur. The road is mostly wide and well-maintained, but there are some curvy and narrow sections. Despite this, the drive is suitable for all drivers and well worth the effort for the amazing views and memories it will create. Plus, you can do it on a moderate budget. So get ready to take in the beauty of the French Alps!

Thones is a small commune located in the Haute-Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of South-Eastern France. It is a perfect starting point for the spectacular road trip named "Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road", which winds its way through the breathtakingly beautiful alpine terrain of the French Alps. Thones is situated in the Faucigny region and is overlooked by the majestic Aravis mountain range. It is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowshoeing. For those who are looking for a more relaxed holiday, Thones offers a number of interesting sights to explore. The village has several impressive churches, including the historic Saint-Germain Church and the 11th-century Saint-Gervais Church. Visitors can also explore the remains of a Roman theatre, take a stroll through the picturesque old town, or admire the views from the nearby summit of the La Balme mountain. For travelers arriving by air, the nearest international airport is Geneva Airport (IATA: GVA). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start the Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road trip from Thones.

Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Thones to Saint Jean de Sixt? This 9 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete and you will be rewarded with some stunning views along the way. On your drive, keep an eye out for some narrow sections of the road, as well as some breathtakingly scenic views. If you’re looking for attractions, there are plenty of options in both Thones and Saint Jean de Sixt. In Thones, you can visit the 12th century church, the old castle ruins, and the beautiful waterfalls. In Saint Jean de Sixt, you can explore the ruins of the old castle and the 12th century church. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” for this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Saint Jean de Sixt to Col de la Colombière. This 14 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views of the French countryside. As you drive, be sure to take in the scenic roads and steep ramps, as well as the winding and narrow sections. Keep an eye out for seasonal closures, and you'll be sure to make the most of your drive. When you finally reach the Col de la Colombière, you'll find plenty of attractions and activities to explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on an amazing road trip from Col de la Colombière to Cluses! This 19 km journey should take you less than an hour to complete, and you will be treated to some stunning views along the way. Keep an eye out for the steep ramps and winding roads, as well as some narrow sections of the route. Please note that some sections may be closed seasonally. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area and a chance to explore the quaint towns of Col de la Colombière and Cluses. Be sure to check out the Cluses Museum, which features a variety of exhibits, and Col de la Colombière's Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Bon voyage!

Cluses, France is the perfect ending point for a road trip around the Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road. Located in the northern French Alps, Cluses is a quaint mountain town that offers plenty to see and do. The town is well known for its picturesque architecture, which features half-timbered houses, winding cobbled streets, and a stunning 14th-century castle. For those who want to explore further, there is the nearby Domaine de Château Gaillard, a Romanesque castle with a spectacular view of the Alps. Nature lovers can also take advantage of the nearby mountain trails for a spot of hiking or biking. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the town is home to several museums, including the Musée des Mines and the Musée du Costume et du Textile. After a day of exploring, visitors can relax at one of the many cafes, restaurants, and bars in the center of town. Cluses is only a short drive from the Geneva International Airport (IATA: GVA), making it an easy destination to get to. Whether you are looking for a relaxing alpine escape or an active adventure, Cluses is the perfect place to end your journey around the Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road.

Before you set off

Embarking on a Road Trip along the Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road immerses travelers in the majestic scenery of the French Alps. The journey begins in the charming town of Thrones and concludes in Cluses, spanning a distance of approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles).

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Adventurers will journey through the picturesque village of Saint Jean de Sixt and ascend the Col de la Colombière pass. Along the way, they will be treated to spectacular vistas comprising verdant alpine forests, tranquil meadows, and imposing peaks with year-round snow. Noteworthy is the proximity of the route to Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak, which might catch your eye on a clear day.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal period to undertake this Scenic Drive is during the summer months, typically from June to September, when the weather is pleasantly mild and the Roads are cleared of snow and ice, providing safer driving conditions.

Potential Risks:

Travelers should take note of possible seasonal Road closures that occur due to adverse weather conditions, particularly in the winter. The route includes some challenging stretches with tight curves and narrow lanes that demand a careful and attentive driving style.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The route is suitable for all levels of driving experience and can be enjoyed without a hefty budget.
• The Roads are generally wide, well-maintained, and offer ample opportunities for stops and photo sessions.
• Along the drive, there are several spots to partake in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, which adds to the allure of the Trip.

A good choice for:

A journey along the Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road is an unforgettable adventure, marked by its striking alpine panoramas and the serenity of the natural landscape. This Road Trip is not just a travel experience but a chance to connect with the grandeur of the French Alps, leaving those who traverse its path with indelible impressions and a deep appreciation for this mountainous region.