Col de la Croix de Fer

Climb to Col de la Croix de Fer

Col de la Croix De Fer - the valley of the L'eau d'Olle A stunning if long climb from Bourg, which I really struggled with last year! The route passes through Allemont, through the old village of Articol, and then rises steeply through Le Rivier. Having done all that climbing the road hairpins steeply back down to the stream of the Olle and then steeply up to 12% up to the Grand Maison barrage/reservoir. Fantastic views of the mountain chain of the Belledonne to your left and the Grandes Rousses mountains on the right. Time for a breather and then a glorious climb up the sweeping road to the green pastures, past the Turn-off for the Col du Glandon, and then on to the summit, adorned with the usual cafe and beautiful Croix de Fer. For a change, it was warm and pleasant on the top, and time to take in the views across to the stunning Aiguilles d'Arves, 3206m and 3506m. Really enjoyed the trip up, catching Ian coming off the top. Hot chocolate for energy, followed by a coca cola, and then the lovely descent back to Bourg. Even the hairpins near le Rivier didn't seem so bad! Loving the granny gear! 50 miles and 1550m climbed. A good day in the saddle!

The Cross