Grand Colombier

The 4 roads leading to the Grand Colombier are closed during the entire winter period. They are generally closed by the road service of the Ain department from November to the second part of April.

The Grand Colombier and Col de la Biche roads have been closed for winter since November 19, 2025, and are scheduled to reopen on March 27, 2026, subject to favorable weather conditions.

Yes, except for major events such as the Tour de France, many parking spaces are available at the Col du Grand Colombier.

Yes, except for the Tour de France, the Grand Colombier or restrictions apply, the pass is accessible by motorhome the rest of the summer period. It is however strongly advised not to climb the pass from Virieu-le-Petit. The laces of the ascent from Culoz are narrow, we advise long campervans to climb from Anglefort or Lochieu.

Water being very rare on Grand Colombier, there are no toilets or water points. It is however possible to quench your thirst at the Pause du Grand Colombier, the snack bar settled at the top.

Camping is not allowed in the Grand Colombier pastures. As a working area for local farmers and a place of life for the herds of the Grand Colombier mountain pastures, we thank you for respecting these restrictions.

– From the parking lotat the top, it is possible to make a round trip of about twenty minutes to the orientation table located at the foot of the Grand Colombier Cross to enjoy a 360 degree panorama. Several hikes of a few hours are also possible on the crests of the Grand Colombier.

– At the top, La Pause du Grand Colombier has snacks, pancakes, etc. The Auberge du Grand Colombier and the Chalet d’Arvières are located on the ascent, on the Culoz and Lochieu (Arvière-en-Valromey) side.
You will also find nearby Bistrot by Tatahie in Virieu-le-Petit (Arvière-en-Valromey), Chez Cuzieu in Munet, L’Ecrin des Granges in Chatel, the Séran in Artemare, Au Campagnard Autrement and Les Epicurieux in Culoz, the Auberge de la Paillère in Lavours la Barque in Champagne and many others that can be found on our page Restaurants.

There is no accommodation at the summit of the Grand Colombier but many holiday cottages, campasites and hotels can be booked in the surrounding villages. Find more on our accomodation pages.

It is possible to walk with your dog on a leash only because of the presence of herds.

Picking is allowed, however we thank you for not leaving the marked trails and for limiting your picking to a minimum.