Discover the Col de la Madeleine from Megève

Beyond the immaculate slopes of Megève and Mont-Blanc, the Alps hold lesser-known treasures just waiting for travellers in search of authenticity. The Col de la Madeleine, perched at an altitude of 1,993 metres between the Tarentaise and Maurienne valleys, embodies this promise of escape.

This legendary road, home to cycling legends and home to breathtaking panoramas, offers an enchanted break less than two hours from our chalet.

A little-known jewel of Alpine heritage

The historic soul of the pass

The Col de la Madeleine carries with it more than a century of Alpine epics. Inaugurated in 1969, this route quickly captured the hearts of Tour de France enthusiasts, welcoming cycling giants to its vertiginous ascent. Every twist and turn tells the story of the champions who have defied the 19.2-kilometre climb from La Chambre, turning the route into a living legend of the sport.

An unspoilt natural theatre

What makes the Col de la Madeleine so special is its privileged position, offering a unique view of the surrounding mountains:

• 360° panoramic view of Mont Blanc, the Vanoise and the Aiguilles d’Arves
• Remarkable geology with rock formations sculpted by the millennia
• Preserved alpine ecosystem where edelweiss and rhododendrons flourish
• Exceptional light at sunrise and sunset, prized by discerning photographers
• A majestic silence away from the hustle and bustle of the resorts, conducive to contemplation

Access from Megève

Your stay in Megève puts you in the ideal position for this exceptional getaway. The route takes you through some of Savoie's most beautiful scenery in less than 90 minutes. The route via Albertville and the Tarentaise valley gradually reveals the majesty of the peaks, gently preparing your senses for the apotheosis of the pass. Connoisseurs prefer an early start, taking advantage of the deserted road and the golden light that sublimates the slopes.

The pass lies between two ski resorts: Valmorel and Longchamp.

Climb the Col de la Madeleine

The Col de la Madeleine is a legendary challenge for cycling enthusiasts. With 1,500 metres of ascent and an average gradient of 8%, this climb requires preparation and quality support. The region's specialist services offer :

• Professional cycling guides who know every bend and every percentage gradient
• High-end electric bikes that let you enjoy the countryside without compromising on fun
• Vehicle assistance to transport personal effects and supplies
• Tailored timing according to your level and your desire for photographic breaks
• Alternative routes via Saint-Martin-de-Belleville for a variety of pleasures

Different routes

The main Col de la Madeleine route already offers a memorable experience, but connoisseurs appreciate the variety of approaches. The ascent from La Chambre is the classic 19.2-kilometre route, while the north side from Aigueblanche offers a different profile.

Certains préfèrent combiner la découverte du col avec une boucle incluant d’autres cols de la région, créant ainsi un circuit personnalisé selon le temps disponible et le niveau physique. Les guides locaux partagent volontiers leurs parcours favoris, adaptés aux envies de chacun.

A necessary preparation

Advanced cyclists who regularly cover the Alpine passes will be able to tackle the Col directly. For others, an electric bike is the ideal solution: it preserves the pleasure of the effort while allowing you to fully savour the scenery without undue suffering. Specialist shops in Megève offer a range of high-performance models.

Advance booking guarantees that your equipment will be perfectly tuned. The more cautious will opt for a guide in a broom wagon, allowing you to manage your effort according to how you feel on the day and the weather conditions.

A treasure trove of natural wonders

Private viewpoints and photographic moments

The Col de la Madeleine offers many spectacular viewpoints throughout its ascent. Photographers particularly appreciate the morning light, which enhances the Alpine relief. During the climb, several bends and natural flat areas invite contemplative pauses, offering panoramas of the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys. At the summit, on a clear day, the view extends over the surrounding massifs and creates a magnificent 360-degree panorama. The high-altitude meadows and their traditional chalets add a bucolic aspect to these high mountain landscapes.

Privileged wildlife encounters

Alpine wildlife can be observed with patience and discretion. Chamois populate the rocky slopes, while marmots enliven the high-altitude meadows with their characteristic whistling. Birdwatchers will appreciate the presence of the bearded vulture, the majestic bird of prey of the summits.

A naturalist guide turns these observations into fascinating lessons about the mountain ecosystem.

Out of sight, out of mind!

The Col de la Madeleine is first and foremost a destination for cyclists and lovers of beautiful panoramas. In summer, a number of hiking trails leave from the pass to explore the surrounding ridges.

The road itself becomes a playground for enthusiast motorcyclists who appreciate its technical curves.

In winter, the pass is generally closed to traffic, transforming these heights into unspoilt territory.

For more exclusive activities, such as panoramic helicopter flights, you'll need to head for the Courchevel or Méribel bases in the neighbouring valley.

Discover Maurienne culture

Starred restaurants and inns with character

The descent to the Maurienne valley reveals a preserved gastronomic land where chefs perpetuate traditions. A very good address is worth discovering:

Le Clocher des Pères,

80, impasse du four

Le Mollard

73130 Saint-martin-sur-la-chambre

A Michelin-starred restaurant you won't soon forget.

Cultural heritage

The Maurienne has a rich Baroque heritage. The churches of Haute Maurienne reveal flamboyant interiors with twisted columns, chubby cherubs, murals and Baroque altarpieces bursting with gold and colour. The church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption in Valloire, consecrated in 1682, is typical of Savoyard Baroque art, with its eight side altars and altarpiece by François Rymellin.

Meetings with local artisans enrich the experience:

• The cheese cooperatives in the valley where Beaufort PDO is produced,
• Woodworkers in several of the valley's villages
• Local producers who can be found at markets.

Charming mountain huts and spas

After the effort of the climb, there are a number of places where you can relax. The La Léchère spa, 440 m above sea level on the way back, offers spa treatments specialising in rheumatology and phlebology. The Ô des Lauzes spa offers 1,500 m² of space dedicated to well-being, with thermal water pools, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms.

For lovers of mountain refuges, the Plan du Lac refuge, located in the Vanoise National Park, is a stage on the GR5 with an exceptional panorama. Other refuges dot the Maurienne, offering authentic stops for hikers and mountaineers.

This excursion from Megève to the Col de la Madeleine reveals the authenticity of the Alps. Spectacular panoramas, unspoilt villages and gourmet restaurants punctuate this day at altitude. When you return to Chalet Ararat, you'll be left with memories of a true, generous and welcoming mountain world.