Lac Besson, located in the French Alps, is a hidden gem for cyclists seeking both challenging climbs and stunning Alpine scenery. This small, serene lake near Alpe d’Huez might not have the fame of some of the region’s iconic cols, but it offers a unique and rewarding cycling experience. In this post, we’ll dive into what makes Lac Besson special for cyclists.

What Makes Lac Besson Special?

Lac Besson stands out for cyclists due to its peaceful location, rewarding climbs, and its proximity to the legendary Alpe d’Huez. Here are the highlights that make it a must-visit destination:

• Peaceful Alpine Setting: Escape the crowds for a quiet, scenic ride.
• Climb from Alpe d’Huez: Reach Lac Besson by conquering one of cycling’s most famous climbs.
• Breathtaking Views: Panoramic vistas of the surrounding Alpine peaks.
• Ideal Cool-Down Ride: A perfect extension after tackling nearby famous routes.

Peaceful Alpine Setting

Unlike the bustling routes of Alpe d’Huez or Col du Galibier, Lac Besson offers a calm, tranquil cycling experience. Its location, nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 2,080 meters, allows riders to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Alps. The lake itself is small but pristine, surrounded by alpine meadows and towering peaks, creating an idyllic setting for a cyclist’s well-earned break.

Cycling to Lac Besson feels like venturing off the beaten path, making it perfect for those who appreciate quiet, scenic rides in a more secluded environment.

Climb from Alpe d’Huez

One of the most exciting aspects of cycling to Lac Besson is that you can only reach it after first tackling the world-famous Alpe d’Huez climb. The iconic 21 hairpins of Alpe d’Huez are considered a rite of passage for serious cyclists, and once you’ve conquered them, the route to Lac Besson continues up for a bit more elevation.

After reaching the main village at Alpe d’Huez, a small road leads you toward Lac Besson. While it’s not as grueling as the ascent to the ski station, this stretch offers a peaceful continuation of your ride, where the crowds thin out, and the beauty of the surroundings becomes even more prominent.

Breathtaking Views

Cycling to Lac Besson means more than just a challenging climb—it offers some of the best panoramic views in the region. The ride from Alpe d’Huez to the lake treats you to sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and meadows. The higher you climb, the more spectacular the scenery becomes, with the snow-capped Alps stretching into the distance.

At Lac Besson itself, the setting is picture-perfect. You’re surrounded by mountains and the calm, reflective surface of the lake, making it a great spot to pause, take in the views, and recover before heading back down.

Ideal Cool-Down Ride

Lac Besson is also a perfect cool-down ride after tackling the grueling climb to Alpe d’Huez or any of the other famous cols in the area. After conquering the relentless switchbacks, the gentle ride to the lake offers a more relaxed, scenic route to wind down while still enjoying the high-altitude environment.

Many cyclists find it the perfect way to extend their time in the mountains, giving them a sense of exploration beyond the famous race routes. It’s a beautiful, refreshing way to complete your day in the Alps.

Conclusion

Lac Besson might not be the most famous climb in the Alps, but it offers a unique and peaceful experience for cyclists looking for a rewarding extension to their ride after tackling the legendary Alpe d’Huez. With its serene setting, breathtaking views, and quieter roads, it’s an Alpine gem worth discovering.

If you’re planning to ride in the Alps, don’t miss out on Lac Besson. Learn more about the surrounding climbs and challenges at Deux Mille and start planning your adventure today!