Cycling routes

Col de Champoussin – Valais Cycling Tour

Col de Champoussin

Champoussin

With the first climb of the Valais Cycling Tour’s 9th stage, this route will take you along a quiet road to the Col de Champoussin to admire a stunning panorama!

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

8.83 km

Duration

1:10 h

Description

As you set off from Champéry’s cable car station, you’ll leave this charming village behind to tackle the little-known climb of the Col de Champoussin. The first kilometre will give your calf muscles a workout with an average gradient of 10.5%. After that, you’ll continue on a gentler slope with gradients varying between 6% and 8%. In the middle of your climb, a short gravel section will spice up your tour as the view grows ever more splendid with every passing kilometre. Once at the summit, marvel at the Dents du Midi mountain range from their best angle.

Turn-by-turn directions

This route begins in Champéry, right at the heart of the Dents du Midi Region, at an altitude of 1,036 metres. Five signposts informing you of your progress are located throughout your ascent. After climbing for 300 metres, turn off to the left towards the Col de Cou. The following section is very demanding, as you will have to climb 105 metres of altitude difference over one kilometre before turning right to continue on gentler slopes with gradients varying between 6% and 8%. The road gives way to a gravelled surface for 1,200 metres which is still accessible with road tyres. Rejoin the Route des Crosets, then set off on a short descent before heading in the direction of Champoussin. The final two kilometres are fairly easy-going, despite the 4% gradient. When you reach the summit, remember to capture the moment next to the red Valais cycling signpost with the majestic Dents du Midi as a backdrop.

Start

Champéry – Cable car station (1033m)

Destination

Col de Champoussin (1586m)

Author's recommendation

Stop for a bite to eat at the “Sur Coux” cantine and enjoy some tasty treats on the panoramic terrace.

Technical information

Altitude

1587m

1033m

Ascent

+553m

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
  • Multi-stage route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Insider tip
  • Summit route
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Flora
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Take the SBB train to Aigle, then change to a regional train line to take you to Champéry.

Approach

From the A9 motorway, take exit 18 to St-Triphon and cross the bridge over the Rhône towards Monthey. Follow the signs for Champéry and pass through the villages of Troistorrents and Val-d’Illiez before reaching your destination.

Parking

Free parking is available in the village centre, close to Champéry railway 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 about the destination Region Dents du Midi:

Region Dents du Midi

Literature

The tourist office in Champéry has got brochures and information material about cycling in the region.

Road Cycling Map Valais

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25'000: 1304 Val d'Illiez / 1284 Monthey

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

View of the Cervo hotel with the Matterhorn in the background, Zermatt. Valais, Switzerland.

Your accommodation in Valais