Cycling routes

Col des Montets (FRA) – Legendary Mountain Passes

Col des Montets

Trient

The Col des Montets is relatively easy: it is only seven kilometres long with 500 metres of climbing. It’s situated in France but is still part of the Trient Valley.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

7.1 km

Duration

1:00 h

Description

Between Le Châtelard on the French-Swiss border and the Col des Montets, the road does not present any significant difficulties. The slope is never too steep and the road surface is in excellent condition. You will cross the village of Vallorcine and its rustic nature. At the summit, the route continues in the direction of Argentière and Chamonix.

Turn-by-turn directions

The Col des Montets is probably the easiest pass in the Valais network. For a change, this climb does not require too much effort! From Le Châtelard until the summit, the road is pleasant and crosses the Mont Blanc Express train linking Martigny to Chamonix. The mountain resort of Vallorcine about mid-way up is worth a visit, and the view at the summit will make you want to continue your ride towards Argentières and Chamonix.

Start

Le Châtelard (1110m)

Destination

Col des Montets (1463m)

Author's recommendation

As a reward at the top of the pass, take the time to admire the beautiful panorama that awaits you. 

Technical information

Altitude

1466m

1110m

Ascent

+356m

Descent

-3m

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
Getting there
Information

Public transport

From Martigny, take the regional train (TMR) to Le Châtelard.

Approach

Motorway A9 to Martigny, then continue on the E27 Road to Martigny-Combe, where you take the road to the Forclaz Pass. Pass by Trient and arrive at Le Châtelard.

Parking

Parking at the village of Le Châtelard.

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

Brochures : Road cycling map

Maps

SwissTopo Maps: 1324 Barberine / 1344 Col de Balme

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

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