Grand Colombier from Artemare
The Artemare side of Grand Colombier is the steeper, more aggressive version of this Jura giant. Long distance, big elevation and a two kilometre section at 14 percent make it a serious target.
- Length
- 15.4 to 15.9 km
- Elevation Gain
- 1,237 to 1,245 m
- Average Gradient
- 7.8 to 8.1%
- Difficulty
- Hors Catégorie
Community recommendation
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Grand Colombier from Artemare is a proper mountain climb. The numbers leave very little room for softness: more than fifteen kilometres, over 1,200 metres of elevation gain and an average gradient around eight percent. The briefing also notes a two kilometre section at 14 percent, which gives the climb a sharper edge than the Culoz side.
This is the version for riders who want Grand Colombier at its most direct. It has the scale of a major climb and the steepness to make pacing genuinely important. The Jura may feel quieter than the Alps, but this road is not a quiet challenge.
How to Ride It
- Start with restraint. The average gradient is high enough that early mistakes are expensive.
- Prepare mentally for the two kilometre section at 14 percent. That is where the climb becomes much more than steady tempo.
- Keep eating and drinking before the steepest section. Once the road tilts up, it becomes harder to recover.
Where to Stay
Artemare is the direct base for this side, while Culoz gives access to another classic approach. For a wider Jura trip, choose a base that lets you compare multiple sides of Grand Colombier.
Practical Tips
- Geneva and Lyon are practical airport options for the Jura.
- Services can be more spread out than in famous Alpine resorts. Plan water and food properly.
- Check descent options before riding. A climb with multiple sides also means multiple ways to get back.
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