lIseran

L'Iseran, officially Col de l'Iseran, is a high mountain pass in the French Alps. It lies in the Savoie department, on the crest that separates the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys, near the Vanoise National Park.

The pass is traversed by the D902 road, connecting Bourg-Saint-Maurice on the Tarentaise side with Val-d'Isère on the Maurienne side. It serves as a crossing between the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys and is a prominent feature of alpine travel in the region.

Elevation and status: The summit sits at 2,770 meters above sea level and is commonly cited as the highest paved pass in the Alps. The road is narrow and winding, with numerous hairpin bends.

Seasonal access: The pass is typically closed in winter due to snow, with annual opening usually in late spring or early summer, depending on snow conditions. Access can vary year by year.

Notability and scenery: L'Iseran is a well-known route for road cyclists, motorcyclists, and motorists, offering dramatic alpine scenery and expansive views of the surrounding peaks. It is also a regular feature in professional cycling races, including the Tour de France.

Location context: The route passes through alpine terrain associated with the Graian Alps in the French Rhône-Alpes region and is in proximity to protected areas within the Vanoise region, reflecting its high-altitude environment and tourism significance.