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Sommeiller pass

Sommeiller Pass (FR-73-2993 or IT-TO-2993) is one of the few cycle passes approaching the 3,000m mark. In addition to its high altitude, the Sommeiller is also a long ascent of 26km, 19 of which are on track that can be very rough, especially towards the end, with a difference in altitude of almost 1800m and magnificent scenery.
The turquoise waters of Lac de Rochemolles, set in a glacial valley that is still very green, are already a feast for the eyes on the first part of the climb. After levelling out for 2.4km, the trail turns east, skirting the Costa del Becco spur. Opposite you is an imposing cirque carved out of the west face of the Rognosa d'Etiache. This is the most beautiful part of the climb, as you climb an impressive series of 16 switchbacks to cross a lock.
After this lock, you reach the Pian dei Morti. The mountain then becomes bare and the world becomes mineral until you reach the Sommeiller pass after another series of switchbacks on a track that is now very stony, although there is a strange 400m tarmac section at around 21m.^e km.
The Ambin hut, on the edge of Lake Sommeiller, completes the ascent. The Sommeiller glacier licks its tongue across the Maurienne side and the Ambin valley. In the distance, to the south-east, you can see the high peaks of the Oisans region, from the Écrins to the Meije.
Distance: 26km
Altitude gain: 1758m
Average gradient: 6.8%
Text and photo credits by Thierry PERRET

Further information on the Col Sommeiller can be found by clicking on the following link: i/util/geo/visu.php?code=FR-73-2993