Col d’Izoard is deservedly one of the most famous cols to ride for col hunters. From Briancon the fun starts after Cervieres. Especially the final kilometers through the forest switchbacks and steep sections that lead you out to an incredible open moon-like landscape the rest of the way to the top makes it all worth it. Many great pictures have been posted on Instagram from this place.
From Guillestre the climb is by no means less intriguing. The barren scree slopes with protruding pinnacles of weathered rock on the upper south side, known as the Casse Déserte, will blow your mind.
All the great Tour de France legends have lead at the summit: Bartali, Coppi, Bobet, Bahamontes, Merckx, van Impe and Chiapucci amongst others. This col matters.