Route des Grandes Alpes, Scenic route from Lake Geneva to Mediterranean Sea, France.
The Route des Grandes Alpes is a road connection between Lake Geneva and the Mediterranean coast that runs over seven hundred kilometers and crosses seventeen mountain passes. The route links Thonon-les-Bains on the shore of Lake Geneva to Nice on the southern coast, passing through six departments of the French Alps.
The Touring Club de France began building this alpine connection in 1909 to link northern and southern valleys along a continuous route. Work continued until 1937, when the final pass road was completed and the entire route became drivable.
The route passes through numerous alpine villages where travelers can discover traditional mountain architecture, regional gastronomy, and local customs of the French Alps.
The highest passes usually open in June and remain accessible until October, depending on snow conditions and weather patterns. Current information about road status and driving conditions should be checked before setting out, as some sections may close on short notice.
The Col de l'Iseran at 2770 meters is the highest paved alpine pass in Europe, offering travelers a view across surrounding glaciers and summits from its crest. At this point, visitors cross between the watersheds of the Rhône to the north and the Durance to the south.
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