Col du Sanetsch – Legendary Mountain Passes
This climb is one of the finest and most demanding in Valais. Starting in the Rhône Valley and culminating at 2,200 metres, this is an ascent that demands respect!
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Difficulty
difficult
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Length
24.2 km
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Duration
2:30 h
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Covering a total altitude difference of 1,800 metres, the Col du Sanetsch route is without doubt the most demanding climb in Valais. From the valley, you first cycle through the vineyards of the municipality of Savièse, then the larch and spruce forests of the municipality of Conthey, before passing through alpine pastures and finally reaching the magnificent Tsanfleuron glacier. At each bend, the road reveals another surprise, including rock faces, waterfalls and snow-capped peaks, as more and more stunning landscapes come into view. The route gradually takes you through narrow, shady gorges lined with cool, fragrant forests. After a few brief but welcome level sections, the climb picks up again with even more gusto, offering a view of the now-distant Rhône Valley. Once you've tackled a few hairpin bends and passed by a waterfall, you’ll gradually find yourself in a landscape of alpine meadows. Cycle through a tunnel carved into the rock and your determination will be rewarded with a close-up view of the limestone pavements of the Tsanfleuron glacier.
