Cycling routes

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Cycling routes

Col des Planches – Legendary Mountain Passes

The ten kilometres between Martigny-Bourg and the summit of the Col des Planches are among the steepest in the region, with some sections reaching a gradient of 15%!

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The first kilometres of climbing from Martigny are merciless: the road launches upward from the start and the slope, which reaches a gradient of 15%, never eases until Chemin-Dessous, the first village along the route. A hairpin curve will offer you a few moments to breathe and shift your attention to the impressive view over the elbow of the Rhône river and the town of Martigny below. The slope then eases up, allowing you to discover the Forclaz valley as the climb continues through larch forests. A brief flat section will give you a moment to save some energy before tackling the final hairpin bends leading to the Col des Planches.

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Turn-by-turn directions

Your climb starts on the plains in the town of Martigny. Follow the road to Chemin-Dessous, which features a steep slope with a gradient of up to 15%. A hairpin bend gives you a moment to catch your breath and enjoy the impressive view of the elbow of the Rhône river and the town of Martigny below. The slope then eases up, allowing you to discover the Forclaz valley as the climb continues through larch forests. A brief flat section gives you the chance to save some energy before the final hairpin bends leading to the Col des Planches. 

Start: Martigny-Bourg (494 m)
Destination: Col des Planches (1408 m)

Author's recommendation

Once you’re back in Martigny, visit the Fondation Pierre Gianadda and the Barryland museum dedicated to St Bernard dogs.

Technical information

  • Altitude

    1408 m 495 m

  • Ascent

    914 m

  • Descent

    0 m

  • Technique

    Bewertung: 3 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Stamina

    Bewertung: 4 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Experience

    Bewertung: 4 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Landscape

    Bewertung: 5 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

Best time of year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
  • Linear route
  • Scenic
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora

Public transport

Travel to Martigny on the SBB Lausanne-Brig line or via the Mont-Blanc Express and St-Bernard Express lines.

Approach

Take the E27 Martigny/Grand St-Bernard motorway exit, then leave the roundabout in the direction of Col de la Forclaz/Chamonix.

Parking

Parking available at La Porte d’Octodure at the motorway exit. Follow the parking directions in Martigny.

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