Cycling routes

Ovronnaz/Mayens de Chamoson – Valais Cycling Tour

Radfahrer in der Steigung von Ovronnaz

Ovronnaz

This enjoyably challenging route leads to Ovronnaz and its thermal baths, taking in a number of major climbs along the way.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

10.79 km

Duration

1:30 h

Description

This uphill route to the spa resort of Ovronnaz begins at the heart of the vineyard overlooking the village of Leytron. The climb is fairly irregular, with some steep gradients to tackle in the first few kilometres. It then becomes steadier once you reach the village of Dugny. The climb gives you a chance to cast an admiring glance over central Valais, with an unobstructed view over the Rhône Valley and in particular on part of the Chamoson vineyard, the largest in Switzerland in terms of surface area. The road follows the winding course of the Salentse river and threads its way through pastures and spruce and pine forests. You’ll have many opportunities to admire the Grand Muveran along the way before finally arriving in Ovronnaz.

Turn-by-turn directions

The route starts in the village of Leytron in the valley. Take the opportunity to fill your water bottle at the fountain and read the information about the climb on the starting signpost. Follow the signposts to Ovronnaz, as well as the four Valais cycling signs located throughout the climb. Once you arrive in Ovronnaz village centre, take the turning on the right and follow the signs to the thermal baths, which are less than two kilometres from the summit of the climb. The finishing signpost is located next to a small square, giving you the chance to take stock of how far you’ve climbed.

Start

Leytron, Route d’Ovronnaz (488m)

Destination

Mayens-de-Chamoson, Les Dzardis (1359m)

Author's recommendation

Take the opportunity to have a dip in the thermal baths in Ovronnaz or Saillon. Turn the route into a circuit by heading back downhill towards the winemaking village of Chamoson.

Technical information

Altitude

1362m

500m

Ascent

+873m

Descent

-2m

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
  • Summit route
  • Refreshment stops available
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Regional train from Sion or Martigny to Riddes. From Riddes station, take the postal bus to Ovronnaz. All information about train and bus timetables can be found at sbb.ch.

Approach

From the A9 motorway, take exit 24 to Riddes and follow the signs to Leytron.

Parking

Parking available at motorway exit 24 to Riddes.

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

Further information:

Literature

The tourist offices in Martigny, Ovronnaz and Sion have brochures and information material about road cycling in the region.

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25,000: 1305 Dent de Morcles

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion