The Postman's Path

A lovely route that is emblematic of Oisans, featuring a narrow path, switchbacks and airy sections. The path follows the GR 50, linking Villard Reymond to Le Bourg d'Oisans, winding its way across the cliff overhanging Le Bourg d'Oisans.

Route in the “MTB in Oisans” guide (Oisans Tourisme)

Departure : Villard Reymond - Col du Solude, 1680 m.
Arrival : Le Bourg-d'Oisans 720 m.
Length: 30 mins
Distance: 5 km
Highest point: 1 680 m
Lowest point: 720 m
Total height gain: 70 m
Total height loss: 970 m
Technique: 4/4
Endurance: 2/4

Map: Top 25 Bourg d'Oisans et l'Alpe d'Huez 3335 ET

ROUTE
> The path starts at the Col du Solude (1680 m) above Villard-Reymond and follows the GR 50 footpath. Keep your eyes open as at the top of the route, certain sections are separate for hikers and mountain-bikers, so make sure you follow the signs.
> Ride down 100 m from the Col on the road and take the path that carries straight on at the bend. This starts on a fast path, but you need to look out to the
right for a smaller path that winds between the trees. It’s a fun path, but you need to concentrate.
> Once back on the GR50, carry straight on to the path reserved for bikers, which gradually narrows until it becomes a series of switchbacks of varying technical difficulty. In all cases, BE CAREFUL as the cliff edge is never far away. There are no junctions, so no risk of getting lost.
> You arrive behind the Bourg-d’Oisans belvedere, which you go round to the right, following a small path as far as the road. This is in the «Ville Noire» district of Le Bourg-d’Oisans - turn left for the town centre.