Les Balcons d’Auris (1764m)

La Garde, after the first five hairpins of Alpe d’Huez is the start of this route. Take the D211 to Auris, a wonderful deserted cliff road with epic views of the Oisans valley below.

Along the cliff road is a signed turn-off to the little ski station of Maronne. It’s a 4.5km extension but definitely worth it. After descending back to the cliff road (if you went up to Maronne) carry on up through Armentier-le-Haut and then follow the road to Le Chatain. A few more quiet, open hairpins over the 5km stretch stand between you and the ski station village, Auris where you can stop off for a well-earned rest.

From here the preferred descent is to continue to La Freney d’Oisans and onto the Lac du Chambon where you can either make your retreat down the mountain back to civilization or head left for the Col du Sarenne which is spectacular and always seems to exceed expectations.