Col du Noyer
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Col du Noyer

4.8
·229 reviews·Le Noyer, France

A legendary Alpine mountain pass, famous for its challenging Tour de France climbs and breathtaking panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Spring to Early Autumn

Snow-free roads, pleasant temps

CrowdMedium
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Col du Noyer

Col du Noyer

Best Time

Late Spring to Early Autumn

Snow-free roads, pleasant temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary Alpine mountain pass, famous for its challenging Tour de France climbs and breathtaking panoramic views.

4.8
(229 reviews)

"Magnificent views and a challenging climb make Col du Noyer a rewarding experience for cyclists and drivers alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

📞 Call Ahead for Food

Restaurant at the pass can be hit or miss. Phone first to avoid disappointment!

💧 Carry Plenty of Water

Limited water sources on the pass. Stay hydrated for your climb.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.8 · 229 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Summit of Col du Noyer

Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Alps await. A truly magnificent reward for your efforts.

Reddit
Challenging Cycling Ascent

Challenging Cycling Ascent

Roads leading to Col du Noyer

Experience the thrill of a demanding climb, particularly the 'wall' section from Le Noyer.

Reddit
Champsaur Valley Charm

Champsaur Valley Charm

Base of the Col du Noyer (Champsaur side)

Explore the picturesque valley, a childhood favorite for many visitors.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Conquer the Climb

The Col du Noyer is a challenging mountain pass, best tackled during warmer months (late spring to early autumn) when snow has cleared. Check weather forecasts, as mountain conditions can change rapidly. Consider weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, especially if you're seeking a quieter cycling or driving experience. Reddit

Fueling Your Ascent

While there's a restaurant at the pass, its availability can be sporadic. It's wise to call ahead to confirm if they're serving. Carry ample water, as one reviewer noted a lack of water sources for refills. Pack snacks to keep your energy levels up during the climb. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Spring to Early Autumn
Why
Snow-free roads, pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful ascent
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📞 Call Ahead for Food

Restaurant at the pass can be hit or miss. Phone first to avoid disappointment! Reddit

💧 Carry Plenty of Water

Limited water sources on the pass. Stay hydrated for your climb. Reddit

⛰️ Check Mountain Weather

Conditions can change quickly in the Alps. Be prepared for all types of weather. Reddit

🚴 Conquer the 'Wall'

The Le Noyer side offers a particularly steep and rewarding cycling challenge. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📞 Call Ahead for Food

Restaurant at the pass can be hit or miss. Phone first to avoid disappointment! Reddit

💧 Carry Plenty of Water

Limited water sources on the pass. Stay hydrated for your climb. Reddit

⛰️ Check Mountain Weather

Conditions can change quickly in the Alps. Be prepared for all types of weather. Reddit

🚴 Conquer the 'Wall'

The Le Noyer side offers a particularly steep and rewarding cycling challenge. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(229 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the magnificent panoramic views from Col du Noyer, calling the scenery splendid and breathtaking. The challenging cycling climb, particularly the 'wall' section, is a highlight for enthusiasts. Some note the restaurant's unreliable hours and the scarcity of water, advising preparedness. Reddit+1

"My granny lives pretty much at the bottom of the Col, Champsaur valley side, so I have spent my childhood holidays in the area... maybe I am biased as a result, but I love it. Great view. A restaurant is sometimes serving (phone before going!). You can get there walking up from Le Noyer via the Col de Saume"

Corinne Martin

"This pass is magnificent and not far from Superdevoluy. I was able to climb it from both sides.
From the Saint-Étienne-en-Dévoluy side, it's easy to climb. The side via Le Noyer is a wall with some nice gradients. Magnificent.
A magnificent view of the mountains.
At the pass, you can get something to eat. The people are friendly and cheerful. However, be careful, there's no water connection, so there's very little water to fill your water bottles.
A climb worth doing."

Arnold ALP

"Beautiful hill from which you can enjoy an excellent view of the valley below"

Emilio Bernasconi

What People Like

Magnificent panoramic views
Challenging cycling climb
Splendid mountain scenery

What People Dislike

Sporadic restaurant hours
Limited water availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Col du Noyer is accessible by car via scenic mountain roads. The most common routes are from Saint-Étienne-en-Dévoluy or via Le Noyer. For cyclists, it's a popular but challenging climb. Reddit

The pass is typically open from late spring to early autumn. Snowfall can close the roads during winter and early spring. Always check local road conditions before your visit. Reddit

Yes, the road leads directly to the summit of Col du Noyer, offering parking and access to the views. Reddit

Saint-Étienne-en-Dévoluy is a nearby town, and Le Noyer is a village located at the base of one of the ascents. Reddit

Public transport options are very limited for reaching Col du Noyer directly. It is best accessed by private vehicle or bicycle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to access Col du Noyer. It is a public mountain pass. Reddit

Col du Noyer is an outdoor mountain pass and is accessible 24/7 when roads are clear of snow. Reddit

No booking is required as it's a natural pass. However, if you plan to eat at the restaurant, calling ahead is recommended. Reddit

The main restriction is weather-dependent road closures due to snow. Otherwise, it's open to all visitors. Reddit

Yes, motorhomes can access Col du Noyer, but be mindful of narrow sections and hairpin turns on the mountain roads. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views, take photos, cycle or drive the challenging roads, and potentially dine at the local restaurant. Reddit+1

Yes, there is a restaurant at the pass, but its operating hours can be inconsistent. It's best to call ahead to confirm. Reddit

Unfortunately, there is very little water available for refilling bottles at the pass itself. It's crucial to carry enough water. Reddit

Expect magnificent, sweeping views of the surrounding Alps and the valley below. It's a truly splendid panorama. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The panoramic views and dramatic mountain scenery make it an excellent location for photography. Reddit

🎫 🚴 Cycling & Hiking

Yes, it's considered a challenging climb, especially the section from Le Noyer, which is described as a 'wall' with steep gradients. Reddit

Col du Noyer stands at an elevation of 1,664 meters (5,459 feet). Reddit

While not extensively detailed, you can potentially explore trails from the pass, such as the route via Col de Saume mentioned by a visitor. Reddit

The gradients can be significant, particularly on the Le Noyer side, which features some 'nice gradients' and is referred to as a 'wall'. Reddit

Yes, Col du Noyer was first included in the Tour de France in 1970, highlighting its significance as a cycling challenge. Reddit

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