if you think you know cycling in the Oisans, the Col du Solude will quietly prove you wrong. Tucked away above Bourg-d’Oisans, this little-known climb trades hairpins and crowds for silence, exposure, and raw mountain character. Narrow roads fade into gravel, the valley drops away beneath you, and halfway up you’re forced through a pitch-black tunnel where breathing, effort, and nerves all sharpen at once.
This isn’t an easier alternative to Alpe d’Huez — it’s a different kind of challenge altogether. The Col du Solude rewards riders who value curiosity over clichés and atmosphere over altitude numbers. In the video and route guide linked below, I break down exactly what it’s like to ride, what to expect under your wheels, and whether this hidden climb deserves a place on your next cycling trip to France.
Watch the ride, explore the route, and download the GPX if you’re ready to experience one of the Oisans’ most underrated climbs.
Alpe d’Huez to Mont Ventoux: Ride the Legends in 2026
Two iconic climbs. One unforgettable journey. Ride from Alpe d’Huez to Mont Ventoux on a supported, small-group cycling adventure through the French Alps and Provence. Carefully designed for passionate amateur cyclists, this tour combines legendary climbs, stunning scenery, and complete peace of mind—transfers, accommodation, support vehicle, mechanic, GPX files, and more all included. Whether you ride a traditional or electric bike, this is your chance to tick cycling’s greatest giants off your bucket list.