Last weekend, the Alpes-Maritimes department inaugurated the Turini pass as the eighth climb integrated into the Cols Connectés program. More than 150 riders participated in the ascent, accompanied by former champions such as Stephen Roche and Claudio Chiappucci.
The Turini pass is now part of the Cols Connectés system. The climb, stretching over 24.1 km with 1,250 meters of elevation gain, was inaugurated on September 20, 2025, in the presence of many elected officials and renowned cycling figures. More than 150 amateur riders took part in this timed ascent alongside Stephen Roche, Claudio Chiappucci, and local cyclists.
This pass, known for its tight turns and panoramic views, holds a special place in sporting memory. It has been featured multiple times in the Monte Carlo Rally and was one of the highlights of the 20th stage of the 2024 Tour de France, won by Tadej Pogacar.
The department had mobilized its services to equip this new route on the occasion of the Cyclo of the Alpes-Maritimes Tour. The event marked the official opening of the Turini pass within the connected network.
The president of the department welcomed this new milestone: “I am very happy to participate in the ascent of the Turini pass, the 8th pass in the Cols Connectés system! This mythical pass is a true paradise for athletes and a jewel of our natural heritage! It was notably the scene of a key stage of the 2024 Tour de France. I am proud that this event contributes to promoting the Maralpin territory, an exceptional playground for cyclists of all levels.”
An accessible system for all
The Cols Connectés are offered free of charge to cyclists. They allow riders to record their time, appear in an online classification, and receive an automatic photo at the summit. Each participant leaves with a memento of their ascent.
The concept is based on a simple idea: to offer cycling enthusiasts a timed challenge in the quest for performance using various tools available to them, all in a friendly atmosphere. Cyclists can encounter professionals, but also share the road with families, licensed riders, or passing tourists. The goal is as much about sport as it is about tourism.
The 2025 season started on May 1st with the climb of the Col de Braus from L’Escarène. It continued with six other events until October 4th. The Col de la Madone, from Sainte-Agnès, will conclude the edition. The Turini, inaugurated on Saturday, is this year’s novelty.
Several days of free activities are planned. They combine cycling, friendliness, and territorial discovery. Champions will come to share their experience with participants. Among them, Stephen Roche and Claudio Chiappucci, present on Saturday in Sospel, as well as Mika Chérel expected at other stages.
Charles Ange Ginésy had recalled at the launch of the season the purpose of the system: “The Alpes-Maritimes has an exceptional playground for cycling enthusiasts, between sea and mountains, with many passes to climb (…) I am eager to open this season on May 1st on the bends of the magnificent Col de Braus.”
Cycling at the heart of a departmental strategy
The department is continuing, in parallel, its 2022-2028 Bike Plan. This program, endowed with 62 million euros, aims to create a network of 320 km of secure bike paths by 2028. It is part of the departmental GREEN Deal, which emphasizes ecological transition and sustainable mobility.
Each event attracts enthusiasts from the entire region. Some pursue performance, others the experience of a shared climb. The free and timed format appeals to a wide audience. Participants leave with a souvenir, but above all with the desire to return.
The next ascent has already been announced. Cyclists will continue their season until October 4th, the date of the last climb at the Col de la Madone. The 2025 edition will thus connect eight passes and gather hundreds of enthusiasts around the same practice.
