How to Cycle the French Alps Without Cars: Car-Free Cols and Quiet Routes

Posted 10-06-2025 by Sally

Every summer, the southern French Alps region offers a rare and exhilarating opportunity for cyclists: select legendary mountain passes, or cols, are closed to motorised traffic on specific dates, leaving the road wide open for two wheels only. Whether you dream of conquering the iconic Col d'Izoard, Col du Noyer or winding up the Col du Galibier, or enjoying the panoramic beauty of Col Agnel, these car-free mornings are a cyclist's dream come true.

Ride the Legends, Without the Traffic

Only in France—the cycling capital of the world—would a country go to such lengths to celebrate two wheels over four. It’s a testament to the nation's love for the sport that entire mountain roads are handed over to cyclists, if only for a few precious hours. Imagine ascending a world-famous col surrounded only by the sound of your tyres on the tarmac, the rush of alpine air, and birdsong echoing through the valleys. No engines. No exhaust fumes. Just pure, uninterrupted riding. These car-free days are part of the "Cols Réservés" initiative, where the local authorities close the roads to vehicles for a few golden hours to let cyclists enjoy the experience safely and serenely.

These mornings are more than just an escape from traffic; they offer a truly unique cycling experience. With only fellow cyclists on the road, you’ll enjoy a shared camaraderie, peaceful ascents, and the freedom to stop and soak in the breathtaking alpine views without worrying about passing cars. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a first-time mountain rider, the serenity of these car-free cols enhances both safety and enjoyment.

Tailor-Made Holidays for Car-Free Cycling Bliss

At Undiscovered Mountains, we specialise in tailor-made cycling holidays in the Southern French Alps, and we design our trips to make the most of these special events. Whether you're planning a week-long cycling odyssey or a short alpine escape, we’ll time your itinerary to include as many of these car-free cols as possible. If you time it right you can almost get a full week of famous roads to ride car free!

But we don’t stop there. With our local knowledge, we’ll also guide you to lesser-known routes and stunning backroads that see very little traffic even outside of the official closures. Think peaceful valley roads, scenic ridge climbs, and secret passes where you'll feel like you have the Alps all to yourself.

Plan Your Summer Ride

The car-free calendar typically includes dates from June through September, with many of the big-name cols featured.

Each closure usually lasts for a morning or half-day, giving you a safe, peaceful window to climb at your own rhythm. Cols like the Izoard, Granon, Galibier, and Agnel are regular highlights, with others added year by year.

As dates vary each summer, we’ll help you build a flexible, personalised itinerary around them, ensuring you get the best combination of challenge, beauty, and peace of mind. We’ll also factor in your fitness level, interests, and travel logistics to create a seamless and rewarding cycling holiday.

Let us take the stress out of route planning and logistics. From accommodation and bike hire to local food stops, luggage transfers, and recovery tips, we’ve got your back so you can focus on the ride.

Ready to Ride Free?

If you’ve ever dreamed of cycling the French Alps without the worry of traffic, now’s your chance. Get in touch with us to start planning your tailor-made car-free cycling adventure in the Hautes-Alpes.

Contact us today to lock in your dates, request a sample itinerary, or find out more about upcoming car-free events.