Grand Colombier landscapeA majestic massif dominating the Ain, the Grand Colombier is a giant of the Bugey region. The highest point in the massif of the same name, it offers a unique panorama of the lakes, Mont Blanc and the Alps. A journey to the summit of a mountain as demanding as it is captivating, with its geology, sporting exploits and memorable anecdotes.
Le Marais de Lavours, stilt path in the nature reserve, at the foot of Grand Colombier
Col du Grand ColombierThe Grand Colombier (1,534 m) belongs to the Jura massif, of which it is one of the southernmost bastions. Its spectacular relief is the result of the Alpine thrust that shaped the Jura in successive folds. Its limestone nature makes it an ideal terrain for sinkholes and resurgences, typical of karst landscapes.
Le Grand Colombier, in the Ain departmentLe Grand Colombier is nicknamed the “Giant of Bugey” as much for its imposing presence as for its relative isolation. It dominates the Rhône valley and Ain plains, contrasting with the wooded mountains and plains that surround it.
The view from the summit is exceptional. A 360° panorama simultaneously reveals Mont Blanc and the Alps, as well as Lake Bourget, Lake Annecy and Lake Geneva. The Rhône River meanders below. You can get there by car, via a spectacular route: from Culoz or Anglefort on the eastern side, or from Virieu-le-Petit.
On foot, more than 100 km of hiking trails take you to the summit and on to the ridge, for a breathtaking view.
Hiking at Grand Colombier
Hiking at Grand Colombier
Hiking at Grand Colombier
Velo Sportif, Grand Colombier ascent This is one of France’s most feared cols. With its gradients exceeding 19% at their steepest, it has forged its legend in the Tour de France peloton, where it was climbed for the first time in 2012. It offers four equally demanding ascent sides:
Velo Sportif, Grand Colombier ascent Every year, thousands of cyclists take on this monster during the Journées Cyclo du Grand Colombier, where the road is reserved for them. Some even take up the “Fêlés du Grand Colombier” challenge, which involves climbing all four sides of the Giant in a single day!
Tour de France in the AinIn 2020, Tadej Pogačar won the Grand Colombier stage by crushing the competition, a key moment in his conquest of the yellow jersey.
The Grand Colombier is not just a place to conquer on two wheels. It’s also the scene of events for trail and mountain running enthusiasts.
Trail at Grand Colombier
Trail at Grand Colombier
Trail at Grand Colombier
