The Col Izoard is one of the upper gateways to the Queyras, the transition to the Briançonnais. Inaccessible in winter, it is one of the busiest tourist routes in the Hautes-Alpes in summer.
But the pass is best known for its spectacular Casse Déserte site, which is made up of scree from which cargneulic peaks emerge. As well as being a spectacular geological feature, the pass has become an iconic stop on the Tour de France cycling race. With a gradient of 8% on the last ten kilometres of the ascent to the pass, the greatest champions such as Fausto Coppi and Louison Bobet have forged their reputations there. Indeed, a stele has been erected in their memory.
It is also the venue for a host of other prestigious cycling races such as the Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré, the Giro d'Italia, the Serre-Che Luc Alphand, the Embrunman (one of the toughest triathlons in the world)...
Over time, the Izoard has become a myth. Don't we say that ""a champion enters the casse déserte alone""?
It is also the venue for a host of other prestigious cycling races such as the Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré, the Giro d'Italia, the Serre-Che Luc Alphand, the Embrunman (one of the toughest triathlons in the world)...
Over time, the Izoard has become a myth. Don't we say that ""a champion enters the casse déserte alone""?
Openings
Openings
From 15 May 2025 until 11 November 2025 - Open everyday
Subject to favorable weather
Subject to snow conditions
Location
Location
Environment
Environment
- Mountain location
