Col du Télégraphe
Col du Télégraphe
If you find yourself in the heart of the Alps with a tick list of climbs that you’re hoping to conquer then there’s a very good chance that the Col du Télégraphe will be pretty close to the top.
Although, on its own, it may be considered a little brother to the surrounding peaks the fact that it’s the gateway to the Galibier means it’s an icon in its own right.
From Sainte-Michel-de-Maurienne the Télégraphe is 11.8km in length with an average gradient of 7.8 per cent. The nice thing with the Télégraphe is its consistency across its entire length, allowing you to find a good rhythm and keep your legs turning in circles. Make the most of the 4.8km descent from its peak to Valloire in order to catch your breath. Unless you’re staying there for the night next on the menu will be the Galibier!
Length: 11.8km
Average gradient: 7.8 per cent
Maximum gradient: 9.8 per cent
Start elevation: 710m
End elevation: 1,566m
Elevation gain: 856m