Cycling Routes in La Plagne — 3 of Our Favourites

Macot La Plagne to La Plagne Centre

From Mâcot-la-Plagne

Distance: 20 km
Elevation gain: Around 1,250m
Gradient: Averages 6–7%, with sections up to 9–10%

Route description:

The route begins in the valley at Mâcot-la-Plagne and climbs steadily via a winding road that takes you through several stations of the La Plagne ski area. You’ll pass La Roche, Plagne 1800, and possibly other villages depending on your chosen route variant, before reaching La Plagne Centre, the heart of the resort.

The road is tarmacked and generally in good condition, with several hairpins and a steady gradient most of the way. The climb is not brutally steep, but it's long and sustained, so pacing is key. There’s not much traffic outside the busy ski season, especially in summer, making it ideal for cyclists.

You’ll be treated to classic Alpine scenery of lush forests lower down, panoramic views over the Tarentaise valley, and rugged peaks as you ascend. The higher you go, the more open and mountainous the landscape becomes.

Aime to La Plagne Centre

From Aime (675m)

Distance: 19km
Elevation gain: 1,370m
Average gradient: 7.2%
Time to climb: 1h30 to 2 hours

This is a classic Alpine climb that starts in the valley town of Aime and winds its way up to La Plagne Centre via 24 numbered switchbacks. The gradient is steady but challenging, making it a rewarding climb with stunning mountain views as you ascend. Expect wide views over the Tarentaise Valley, alpine forests, and ski villages tucked into the slopes.

Route details

Starting in Aime, the climb begins just after leaving the town up the D221 road. The climb is gentle with steady gradients, immediately beginning with the switchbacks. These are clearly marked and numbered, helping with pacing. 

Once you reach La Roche, you'll be about 6km in. Then head up to Plagne 1800 where you'll find a few cafés and rest points were you can stop for a drink and spot of lunch. Then you can move on for the final stretch to La Plagne Centre with the big mountain panoramas all around. 

When you reach La Plagne Centre where you can chill with a coffee or a cold beer.

La Plagne loop

From La Plagne Centre

Distance: 72km
Elevation gain: 2,180m
Estimated ride time: 3h30 to 5 hours (depending on pace and stops)
Difficulty: hard with long climbs and technical descents
Best season: from late spring to early autumn when the roads are free of snow

Route description

Starting in the resort, descend via the D221. With 24 switchbacks after 19km you'll end up in Aime, cross the river and join the D86.

Head east along the valley floor towards Bourg-Saint-Maurice, enjoy this flat section where you can give your legs some time to rest before the climb. 

There are a few options when it comes to the climb up, either to Bourg, Montée de Hauteville or Granier. The traverse and climb towards Granier and La Côte d'Aime is beautiful, through meadows and alpine vlllages. 

There are a couple of route variations also to make things easier or harder:

• harder - add the Cormet de Roselend climb from Bourg-Saint-Maurice for a massive ride of 120km
• easier - skip the upper villages and return to aime from Bourg via the valley