Cycling routes

Col du Lein (Vollèges) – Legendary Mountain Passes

Aufstieg Col du Lein (aus Vollèges)

Vollèges

Starting in Vollèges, this route climbs rapidly above Val de Bagnes through meadows and forests, offering a magnificent view over central Valais.

Difficulty

Difficult

Length

11.2 km

Duration

1:20 h

Description

Starting in Vollèges in Val de Bagnes, cycle through pastures as you follow the road towards the summit of the Pierre Avoi. The climb remains steady throughout its 11.2 kilometres, and culminates at 1,686 metres in altitude. This route leading to the Col du Lein has the unusual feature of running across an unpaved road for its final stretch. Throughout the ride, you’ll be able to enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the surrounding peaks, including the Catogne, the Tête de la Payanne and Mont Rogneux.

Turn-by-turn directions

A signpost at the centre of the village of Vollèges marks the start of your climb. Follow the Valais cycle signs to reach the villages of Cries and Le Levron. 4.2 kilometres from the summit, turn right to take the Col du Lein road. The final kilometre of the route is on an unpaved surface that is nonetheless suitable for cycling.

Start

Vollèges (837m)

Destination

Col du Lein (1683m)

Author's recommendation

From the Col du Lein, cycle the panoramic road that connects the Col du Tronc and the Col des Planches before heading back down to Martigny via the hamlets of Chemin-Dessus and Chemin-Dessous.

Technical information

Altitude

1684m

837m

Ascent

+846m

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
  • Accessibility
  • Summit route
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Flora
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Regional trains on the Saint Bernard line to Etiez.

Approach

Take the A9 motorway to Martigny, then follow the E27 to Grand Saint Bernard and continue towards Verbier/Chamonix. At the roundabout, take the second exit in the direction of Aoste/Gd-St-Bernard/Verbier. Then take the Route de la Vallée to Sembrancher and continue to Vollèges.

Parking

Parking available in the village of Vollèges. Follow the directions for parking in Vollèges.

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 offices in Martigny and Verbier have brochures and information material about road cycling in the region.

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25,000: 1325 Sembrancher

 

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.

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