This is a gem of a road if you like mountain passes with spectacular views. I've started the route high up at the Isola 2000 ski resort, but the best way is to start about 40 miles before this on the D2205 at Saint Saveur sur Tinee. However, this is about the D97, which winds its way all the way up the mountain to the very top, at the border with Italy, on the Col de la Lombarde at 2350m above sea level. If you like getting dizzy on hair pins, then you'll love this. When I did it, it was deserted other than a mad cyclist who had ridden to the top.
If you want an even better time, just carry on over into Italy, for more of the same.