The Col de Vars, between the Guil and Ubaye valleys, bridges the Queyras and the Mercantour massif on the Route des Grandes Alpes. Less publicised than its illustrious neighbours, it remains a demanding climb over the long haul.
The profile from Guillestre
From Guillestre, expect about 18.9 km and 1,115 m of climbing, averaging 5.9%. The first section, up to Saint-Paul-sur-Ubaye, is relatively gentle, before the final five kilometres harden noticeably with stretches between 8 and 10% up to the summit, at 2,108 m.
Getting the ride right
Save something for the finish: the hardest section comes after two-thirds of the climb, just as fatigue starts to weigh in. A compact or triple chainset makes this steeper, more selective final section far more manageable.
When to go
June to September, as the pass generally stays closed by snow outside this window. Traffic remains moderate compared with better-known passes in the area, even at the height of summer.
Good to know
Guillestre, at the crossroads of the Queyras and Ubaye, offers a good choice of accommodation and convenient access to other passes on the Route des Grandes Alpes such as the Izoard to the north or the Bonette to the south, for building a multi-day Alpine crossing.
