Cycling routes

Col de Champex (Bovernier) – Legendary Mountain Passes

Velofahrer in Champex-Lac, im Hintergrund der See

Martigny

The Col de Champex connects Bovernier to Champex-Lac, which is at the junction of the Val Ferret and the Val d’Entremont. Champex lake at the summit is both captivating and relaxing.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

10.72 km

Duration

1:15 h

Description

In just a few kilometres, this route offers the chance to enjoy a variety of natural settings, including prairies, forests and alpine panoramas. It makes for a challenging climb, though, so you'll need to be in good physical shape to tackle it. Starting from Bovernier, the route passes through the Durnand gorges during its first few kilometres before climbing gradually towards Champex and offering a superb panoramic view dominated by the Catogne and Mont Dolent. At the summit, the village of Champex-Lac will invite you to stop for a well-deserved break.

Turn-by-turn directions

The Valais cycling signpost marking the start of the route is at the intersection of the Route des Valettes main road and the Route de Champex, at the heart of the municipality of Bovernier. Follow the Valais cycle signs for 10.7 kilometres along a quiet road featuring numerous bends. Once you arrive in the village of Champex d’en Bas, continue straight ahead until you reach the car park for the Champex-Lac ski lifts and the Col de Champex.

Start

Les Valettes (626m)

Destination

Col de Champex (1496m)

Author's recommendation

Visit the alpine botanical garden in Champex-Lac and learn more about local flora and medicinal plants.

Technical information

Altitude

1497m

626m

Ascent

+870m

Descent

-0m

Technique

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Linear route
  • Scenic
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Flora
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Travel to Bovernier via the SBB Lausanne-Brig line and the Transport Martigny Région line.

Approach

Take the E27 via the Martigny/Grand St. Bernard exit. At the roundabout, continue straight ahead in the direction of the Col du Grand St. Bernard.

Parking

Parking available at Bovernier train station.

Equipment

We recommend: bike in excellent working order, helmet, gloves and bell, clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof), food and drink.

Safety information

Strictly respect the Swiss traffic rules. Please note that you are running the tour at your own risk and all liability is refused. Please be considerate to plants and animals. For your own safety, wear an helmet every time you ride a bike.Emergency numbers: 144 Ambulance / 117 Police / 1414 Helicopter Rescue (Rega).

Additional information

More information :

Literature

The tourist office in Martigny has brochures and information material about road cycling in the region

Brochures : Road cycling map

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25'000: 1325 Sembrancher

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

Your accommodation in Valais