Col des Saisies Panoramic Road Itinerary
The Col des Saisies Panoramic Road is a 33km route that starts in Flumet and ends in Beaufort, France. It is a picturesque drive that can be enjoyed any time of the year, but is especially beautiful when the snow-capped Alps are in view. Along the way you will pass through the charming town of Col des Saisies, with its traditional alpine architecture. The road is mostly in excellent condition, although there are some curvy and narrow sections. Be aware that seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur.
This road trip is perfect for those looking for a memorable experience without breaking the bank. The stunning landscape and views make it an unforgettable journey that can be enjoyed by drivers of all levels. With a moderate budget and a day to spare, you can experience the beauty of the Col des Saisies Panoramic Road.
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number of days
33 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Flumet
Distance 33 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: slow
7.6 kWh
Airports
NCY
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Flumet, France is an ideal starting point for the Col des Saisies Panoramic Road trip. Located in the heart of the French Alps, Flumet is the perfect place to start your journey. You'll find plenty of things to explore in this charming alpine village. From the magnificent 17th-century chapel to the impressive 12th-century castle, there's something for everyone.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Geneva Airport (GVA). From there you can rent a car and begin your journey through the French countryside.
As you drive through the picturesque towns and villages of the alpine region, make sure to take time to explore the local attractions. From the beautiful lakes of Les Saisies to the breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, Flumet is the perfect place to start your adventure.
If you're looking for a bit of adventure during your trip, there's plenty to do in Flumet. Take a hike through the alpine forests or spend an afternoon on the slopes of the nearby ski resorts. Or take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town and admire the traditional architecture.
No matter what you choose to do, Flumet is the perfect starting point for your Col des Saisies Panoramic Road trip. With its stunning views and charming atmosphere, it's sure to be the highlight of your journey.
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Flumet
- Col des Saisies
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
4.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Flumet to Col des Saisies! This 15km journey will take you less than an hour and will be full of breathtaking views. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by lush green meadows and towering pine forests. You'll also get to experience the quaint village of Flumet and the majestic Col des Saisies. Be sure to keep an eye out for the steep ramps and winding roads, which can be tricky to navigate. Some sections may be closed seasonally, so make sure to check the itinerary for any updates. You'll also want to take it slow in some of the narrower sections. Enjoy all the sights and sounds of this beautiful region, and don't forget to take lots of pictures! With so much to explore, you'll never want to leave. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Col des Saisies - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Col des Saisies
- Beaufort
Distance 18 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
4.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a delightful road trip from Col des Saisies to Beaufort and explore the beauty of the French countryside. This 18 km stretch of road will take less than an hour to complete and will provide you with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As you drive, take note of the steep ramps and winding roads that you will encounter. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so make sure to check before you leave. You may also find that some sections of the road are quite narrow. Along the way, make sure to take in the stunning scenery and enjoy the fresh air.
At the end of your journey, you will arrive in Beaufort, where you can find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information about these, be sure to check the itinerary for this stage of your road trip. Enjoy the adventure!
Beaufort - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Beaufort
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Beaufort, located in the Savoie department in the Rhone-Alpes region of France, is the perfect ending point for the "Col des Saisies Panoramic Road" road trip. This charming mountain village is known for its picturesque alpine scenery and deep blue lake, Lac du Bourget. The village is home to many historical attractions, including the Château de Beaufort, the old Savoyard farm, and the Eglise de Saint-Sulpice.
The region is also known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. The nearby ski resorts of La Plagne, Les Arcs, and Val Thorens are all within easy driving distance of Beaufort.
The nearest international airport to Beaufort is Geneva Airport (GVA), located approximately 120 kilometers away. From there, visitors can rent a car and make the journey to Beaufort in just over an hour and a half.
No matter the time of year, there is something for everyone in Beaufort. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, biking, and swimming in the summer, Beaufort is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a beautiful mountain getaway.
Col des Saisies Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Flumet
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End:
Beaufort
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Distance:
33 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Annecy-Haute-Savoie-Mont Blanc Airport (NCY)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Col des Saisies Panoramic Road is a captivating 33km journey that takes you from Flumet to Beaufort through the heart of the French Alps. This route is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes, featuring majestic mountain vistas and quintessential alpine villages.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Flumet: Begin your adventure amidst Flumet's eye-catching vistas, and explore its historical architecture, including the medieval Church of Saint Théodule.
- Col des Saisies: This charming high-mountain pass at 1,650 meters altitude offers a harmonious blend of traditional Savoyard architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. It's also a winter sports hotspot, hosting cross-country skiing events during the 1992 Winter Olympics.
- Beaufort: Conclude your drive in Beaufort, renowned for its artisanal cheese, Beaufort Chalet d'Alpage. The town exudes a welcoming ambiance and provides a glimpse into the alpine pastoral lifestyle.
Best Time to Go:
To witness the Alps in their full glory, adorned with snow or lush greenery, plan your Trip from late spring to early fall. Alpine flowers bloom in summer, while autumn brings a stunning palette of colors to the landscape.
Potential Risks:
- Unpredictable mountain weather may lead to Road closures, especially in winter.
- The route includes tight bends and narrow stretches, demanding focused driving skills, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Col des Saisies Panoramic Road is part of the Route des Grandes Alpes, a famous tourist itinerary that stretches from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea.
- The area is steeped in history, with several forts and remnants from WWII visible along the route.
- Be sure to enjoy the panoramic viewpoint from Col des Saisies, which offers a stunning view of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak.
A good choice for:
Traversing the Col des Saisies Panoramic Road is an affordable and exhilarating experience for those yearning to immerse themselves in the alpine grandeur of the French Alps. With diverse sights ranging from natural wonders to cultural heritage, this Road Trip promises a fulfilling adventure for travelers of all interests.