Reserved mountain passes in the Hautes-Alpes in 2026: a cyclist’s paradise to discover from La Robéyère

Every summer, the Hautes-Alpes region becomes a unique playground for road cycling enthusiasts. But some mornings have an even more special flavor: the mornings of the “reserved passes”. For a few hours, some of the most beautiful mountain roads are closed to motorized traffic, making way for cyclists.

For lovers of breathtaking scenery, sporting challenges, and legendary climbs, it’s a rare opportunity to experience the mountains in a different way.

Located in Embrun, in the heart of the Southern Alps, the Hotel La Robéyère is an ideal starting point for enjoying the 2026 reserved passes in the Hautes-Alpes.

What is a reserved pass?

The principle is simple: for one morning, a mountain pass or iconic climb is closed to cars and motorcycles, making it entirely dedicated to cyclists.

No official timing, no rankings, no pressure. The sheer pleasure of climbing at your own pace, in an exceptional environment, free from motorized traffic.

In the Hautes-Alpes, this event has become a must-attend for cyclists from all over France, and even from abroad. Some come to take on a sporting challenge. Others to discover legendary Tour de France climbs in ideal conditions.

The experience is also accessible to recreational cyclists and e-bikes. This is one of the great advantages of the reserved mountain passes: everyone can experience the mountains in their own way.

The 2026 calendar of reserved mountain passes in the Hautes-Alpes
The 2026 program promises another fantastic season for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Summer Highlights

Here is the list for summer 2026.

• May 30: Col du Noyer
• May 31: Orcières Climb
• June 7: Pré de Madame Carle
• June 14: Col de Foureyssasse
• June 28: Puy Saint Vincent Climb
• July 1: Col de l’Échelle
• July 2: Col de l’Izoard
• July 3: Col Agnel
• July 12: Col de Manse
• July 15: Col du Granon
• July 16: Col du Galibier
• July 16: Risoul Climb
• July 21: Col de Perty
• July 22: Climb of Colombis
• July 28: Chabre Climb
• July 29: Pommerol Pass
• August 4: Galibier Pass
• August 5: Noyer Pass
• August 6: Izoard Pass
• August 7: Céüse Climb
• August 12: Granon Pass
• August 18: Risoul Climb
• August 19: Gleize Pass

The complete calendar is available on the official Hautes-Alpes Tourism website.

Legendary Mountain Passes You Can’t Miss

The Col de l’Izoard

It’s impossible to talk about cycling in the Hautes-Alpes without mentioning the legendary Col de l’Izoard.

With its lunar landscapes and the famous Casse Déserte, the Izoard is one of the most iconic climbs in French cycling. On designated mountain pass days, the experience takes on an even more spectacular dimension: the silence of the mountains replaces the noise of engines.

For many cyclists, it’s a climb they have to experience at least once.

The Col du Galibier

The Col du Galibier remains an absolute benchmark for lovers of great Alpine passes.

At over 2,600 meters altitude, it offers a demanding but unforgettable climb. The panoramic views of the Alpine massifs are exceptional.

Climbing it on a road closed to traffic gives the impression of experiencing a stage of the Tour de France firsthand.

The Agnel Pass

Located on the Italian border, the Agnel Pass is one of the highest paved mountain passes in Europe.

Its stark, rocky landscape, high altitude, and wild atmosphere are particularly appealing to experienced cyclists.

It is also one of the most spectacular passes in the Southern Alps.

The Granon Pass

The Granon Pass is known for its formidable gradients.

This climb has become even more famous since the Tour de France returned to this area. The final, very demanding kilometers reward cyclists with magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Why the Hautes-Alpes are a must-see destination for cycling

The Hautes-Alpes boast exceptional terrain for road cycling.

The department offers several advantages sought after by cyclists:

• often sunny weather;
• varied mountain roads;
• low traffic density on certain routes;
• legendary Tour de France mountain passes;
• very diverse landscapes, from valleys and forests to high mountains and lakes.

Around Embrun and Lake Serre-Ponçon, the routes offer a wide range of cycling options.
Accessible outings for those seeking a more challenging ride.

The area now attracts both recreational cyclists and more serious riders, who come to prepare for cyclosportive events or alpine challenges.

Stay in Embrun to enjoy the exclusive mountain passes

Choosing Embrun as your base camp provides easy access to many iconic mountain passes in the Hautes-Alpes.

From La Robéyère, you can quickly reach several must-see routes around Lake Serre-Ponçon, the Guillestrois region, and the Briançonnais region.

After a mountain ride, cyclists particularly appreciate:

• the peace and comfort of a 4-star hotel;
• outdoor spaces for relaxation;
• access to the spa and wellness facilities;
• the opportunity to enjoy a stay combining sport and relaxation.

Cycling in the Hautes-Alpes isn’t just about performance. It’s also a way to discover the region, the Alpine villages, the landscapes, and the lifestyle of the Southern Alps.

Tips for participating in reserved mountain passes

Even though the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, some climbs remain challenging.

Before setting off, it is advisable to prepare:

• a fully serviced bicycle;
• clothing suitable for temperature variations at altitude;
• enough water;
• nutrition appropriate for the effort;
• an early start to take advantage of the best conditions.

Roads are generally reserved for cyclists between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.

In the high mountains, the weather can change rapidly, even in summer. It is therefore important to check the conditions before each ride.

A unique experience to enjoy in the Southern Alps

The reserved mountain passes offer a rare way to discover the great Alpine climbs.

Riding without motorized traffic completely transforms the experience. The pace changes, the landscapes take on a new dimension, and you fully appreciate the mountains.

For road cycling enthusiasts, the Hautes-Alpes remains one of the most beautiful destinations in France.

And to fully experience it, a stay at La Robéyère allows you to combine sport, relaxation, and exploring the Southern Alps.

Plan your cycling holiday at La Robéyère

Located in Embrun, in the immediate vicinity of the highest mountain passes in the Southern Alps, La Robéyère welcomes cyclists in a calm and comfortable setting, ideal for recovering after a day in the mountains.

Certified Accueil Vélo (Cyclist Welcome), the hotel offers services tailored to cyclists: secure bike storage, route advice, personalized service, and an environment designed for active holidays.

After your ride, enjoy the spa and wellness areas to recover in optimal conditions, before discovering the cuisine of the La Robéyère restaurant, inspired by seasonal produce and the Alpine lifestyle.

Nestled between high mountain passes, Lake Serre-Ponçon, and stunning mountain scenery, La Robéyère is an ideal starting point for experiencing the Hautes-Alpes region to the fullest by bike.