Over the years, the Col du Sabot has been hyped as a hidden gem, and one of the most unique Deux Mille climbs. Located close to two of the most conquered col, Col de Croix-de-Fer and Col du Glandon, Sabot has become less hidden and more of a challenge for riders in the area.

Sabot is truly its own. While nearby Alpe d’Huez, Col de la Croix-de-Fer, and Col du Glandon are known from the Tour de France and all have legendary status, Sabot has never fully featured in pro cycling. Halfway up a vicious climb, you find out why. It all becomes surreal after steep, winding roads up to a Vaujany transform into another kind of road In principle, this is a paved road, but the last seven kilometers are concrete mixed with potholes, gravel, pieces of grass, and stretches smeared in cow shit.

The climb doesn’t get any gentler as the road moves up above the tree line and out into open spaces. The reward, on the other hand, is worth much of the pain. The view on both sides is incredible, especially the view over Lac du Grand Maison, which many know from rides up to Glandon and Croix-de-Fer.

On the other hand, the descent is extremely risky on the upper half, and many have had their cycling seasons ruined here, even at low speeds.