Col du Lautaret to Briançon

Col du Lautaret to Briançon

The Col du Lautaret is a high mountain pass in the French Alps. It is located on the border between the departments of Isère and Hautes-Alpes, and connects the towns of La Grave and Briançon. The pass is crossed by the Route nationale 91, and is a popular destination for cyclists and motorcyclists.

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Language

The official language of France is French. However, many other languages are spoken in the country, including English, German, Spanish, and Italian. In the Col du Lautaret area, you are likely to hear French, English, and Italian.

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Currency

The official currency of France is the euro (€). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in France.

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Distance

The distance from Col du Lautaret to Briançon is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles).

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How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Briançon from Col du Lautaret:

• By car: The most convenient way to reach Briançon from Col du Lautaret is by car. The drive takes about 45 minutes.
• By bus: There are several buses that run between Col du Lautaret and Briançon each day. The journey takes about 1 hour.
• By train: There is no direct train service between Col du Lautaret and Briançon. However, you can take a train from Col du Lautaret to Grenoble, and then change trains for Briançon.

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Expenses

The cost of traveling from Col du Lautaret to Briançon will vary depending on your mode of transportation and your budget. However, here are some general estimates:

• Car rental: €50-€100 per day
• Bus fare: €10-€15
• Train fare: €20-€30
• Accommodation: €50-€100 per night
• Food and drink: €20-€30 per day

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Best time to go

The best time to visit the Col du Lautaret is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the pass is also beautiful in the winter, when it is covered in snow. If you are planning to visit the pass in the winter, be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.

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What to Eat

There are many great places to eat in the Col du Lautaret area. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Le Relais du Lautaret: This restaurant is located at the top of the Col du Lautaret, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The menu features traditional French cuisine, with a focus on local products.
• Le Refuge du Lautaret: This mountain hut is located a short walk from the Col du Lautaret, and offers basic but comfortable accommodation. The restaurant serves simple, hearty meals, perfect for after a day of hiking or biking.
• La Ferme de la Combe: This farm-to-table restaurant is located in the village of La Grave, a short drive from the Col du Lautaret. The menu features seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

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Where to Go

The Col du Lautaret is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are a few of our favorite things to do:

• Hiking: There are many hiking trails in the Col du Lautaret area, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Some of our favorite hikes include the trail to the summit of the Pic du Lac Blanc, the trail to the Glacier de la Girose, and the trail to the Lac de la Muzelle.
• Biking: The Col du Lautaret is a popular destination for cyclists. There are several challenging climbs in the area, including the Col du Galibier and the Col de l'Izoard. There are also many quieter roads perfect for a leisurely bike ride.
• Skiing: The Col du Lautaret is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders in the winter. There are several ski resorts in the area, including Serre Chevalier and Puy-Saint-Vincent.

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FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Col du Lautaret:

• Is the Col du Lautaret open all year? Yes, the Col du Lautaret is open all year. However, the pass may be closed during periods of heavy snow or ice.
• Is the Col du Lautaret difficult to drive? The Col du Lautaret is a challenging drive, but it is passable by most vehicles. However, it is important to be aware of the weather conditions and to drive carefully.
• What is the highest point on the Col du Lautaret? The highest point on the Col du Lautaret is the summit of the Pic du Lac Blanc, which is 2,932 meters (9,619 feet) above sea level.