Geography and Climbing Profile

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 67 views

Introduction

The Col de la Madeleine is a renowned mountain pass in the French Alps, known for its grueling climb and breathtaking scenery. Located in the Savoie department, this iconic pass has been a staple of the Tour de France for decades, attracting cyclists and fans alike. In this article, we will delve into the history, geography, and challenges of the Col de la Madeleine, making it a must-read for cycling enthusiasts and simulation game players.

History and Significance

The Col de la Madeleine has been a part of the Tour de France since 1952, with the first ascent taking place on July 10th of that year. Over the years, this mountain pass has been a testing ground for some of the world's top cyclists, with many legendary riders conquering its slopes. The Col de la Madeleine is not only a challenging climb but also a symbol of French cycling heritage, with its rich history and cultural significance.

Geography and Climbing Profile

The Col de la Madeleine is a long and grueling climb, spanning nearly 20 kilometers from the base to the summit. The average gradient is around 7.5%, with some sections reaching as high as 10%. The climb starts at an elevation of around 420 meters from the small D97 road, gradually increasing in difficulty as it winds its way up to the summit. The north climb is slightly more irregular, with a lower average gradient but a more challenging profile.

The North Climb: A More Challenging Ascent

The north climb of the Col de la Madeleine is considered the more challenging ascent, due to its irregular profile and lower average gradient. The climb starts at an elevation of around 441 meters in La Chambre, gradually increasing in difficulty as it winds its way up to the summit. The north climb is characterized by a series of short, steep sections, followed by longer, more gradual inclines. This irregular profile makes the north climb a more unpredictable and challenging ascent.

The South Climb: A More Gradual Ascent

The south climb of the Col de la Madeleine is a more gradual ascent, with a slightly higher average gradient than the north climb. The climb starts at an elevation of around 420 meters from the small D97 road, gradually increasing in difficulty as it winds its way up to the summit. The south climb is characterized by a series of longer, more gradual inclines, making it a more predictable and manageable ascent.

The Summit: A Breathtaking View

The summit of the Col de la Madeleine is a breathtaking sight, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The summit is located at an elevation of around 1,069 meters, offering a panoramic view of the French Alps. The summit is also marked by a small chapel and a monument, commemorating the many cyclists who have conquered the Col de la Madeleine over the years.

Training and Simulation

The Col de la Madeleine is a popular training track for cyclists, with many professional teams using it as a testing ground for their riders. The Col de la Madeleine is also a popular destination for simulation game players, with many games featuring this iconic mountain pass. The Col de la Madeleine is a challenging yet rewarding climb, offering a unique and exhilarating experience for cyclists and simulation game players alike.

Conclusion

The Col de la Madeleine is a legendary mountain pass in the French Alps, known for its grueling climb and breathtaking scenery. With its rich history, cultural significance, and challenging climbing profile, the Col de la Madeleine is a must-visit destination for cycling enthusiasts and simulation game players. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a simulation game player, the Col de la Madeleine offers a unique and exhilarating experience that will leave you breathless.

Additional Information

The Col de la Madeleine is a training track for RealPower and Realaxiom.
The climb is approximately 20 km long and has an average gradient of 7.5%.
The north climb is considered the more challenging ascent, due to its irregular profile and lower average gradient.
The summit is located at an elevation of around 1,069 meters, offering a panoramic view of the French Alps.
The Col de la Madeleine is a popular destination for simulation game players, with many games featuring this iconic mountain pass.
Col de la Madeleine: A Q&A Guide =====================================

Introduction

The Col de la Madeleine is a legendary mountain pass in the French Alps, known for its grueling climb and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a simulation game player, the Col de la Madeleine offers a unique and exhilarating experience. In this article, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the Col de la Madeleine, providing you with a deeper understanding of this iconic mountain pass.

Q: What is the Col de la Madeleine?

A: The Col de la Madeleine is a mountain pass in the French Alps, located in the Savoie department. It's a popular destination for cyclists and simulation game players, known for its grueling climb and breathtaking scenery.

Q: How long is the Col de la Madeleine?

A: The Col de la Madeleine is approximately 20 km long, making it a challenging climb for even the most experienced cyclists.

Q: What is the average gradient of the Col de la Madeleine?

A: The average gradient of the Col de la Madeleine is around 7.5%, with some sections reaching as high as 10%.

Q: Which side of the Col de la Madeleine is more challenging?

A: The north climb of the Col de la Madeleine is considered the more challenging ascent, due to its irregular profile and lower average gradient.

Q: What is the elevation of the summit of the Col de la Madeleine?

A: The summit of the Col de la Madeleine is located at an elevation of around 1,069 meters, offering a panoramic view of the French Alps.

Q: Is the Col de la Madeleine a popular destination for simulation game players?

A: Yes, the Col de la Madeleine is a popular destination for simulation game players, with many games featuring this iconic mountain pass.

Q: What is the history of the Col de la Madeleine?

A: The Col de la Madeleine has been a part of the Tour de France since 1952, with the first ascent taking place on July 10th of that year. Over the years, this mountain pass has been a testing ground for some of the world's top cyclists.

Q: Can I train on the Col de la Madeleine?

A: Yes, the Col de la Madeleine is a popular training track for cyclists, with many professional teams using it as a testing ground for their riders.

Q: What are the best times to visit the Col de la Madeleine?

A: The best times to visit the Col de la Madeleine are during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the roads are clear. However, the Col de la Madeleine is a year-round destination, and visitors can enjoy the scenic views and challenging climbs regardless of the season.

Q: Are there any accommodations or services available at the Col de la Madeleine?

A: Yes, there are several accommodations and services available at the Col de la Madeleine, including hotels, restaurants, and bike shops. Visitors can also find information and resources at the local tourist office.

Conclusion

The Col de la Madeleine is a legendary mountain pass in the French Alps, known for its grueling climb and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a simulation game player, the Col de la Madeleine offers a unique and exhilarating experience. We hope this Q&A guide has provided you with a deeper understanding of this iconic mountain pass, and we encourage you to visit the Col de la Madeleine and experience its beauty and challenge for yourself.