Cycling routes

Cycling routes

Col de Champoussin – Valais Cycling Tour

With the first climb of the Valais Cycling Tour’s 9th stage, this route will take you along a quiet road to the Col de Champoussin to admire a stunning panorama!

As you set off from Champéry’s cable car station, you’ll leave this charming village behind to tackle the little-known climb of the Col de Champoussin. The first kilometre will give your calf muscles a workout with an average gradient of 10.5%. After that, you’ll continue on a gentler slope with gradients varying between 6% and 8%. In the middle of your climb, a short gravel section will spice up your tour as the view grows ever more splendid with every passing kilometre. Once at the summit, marvel at the Dents du Midi mountain range from their best angle.

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Turn-by-turn directions

This route begins in Champéry, right at the heart of the Dents du Midi Region, at an altitude of 1,036 metres. Five signposts informing you of your progress are located throughout your ascent. After climbing for 300 metres, turn off to the left towards the Col de Cou. The following section is very demanding, as you will have to climb 105 metres of altitude difference over one kilometre before turning right to continue on gentler slopes with gradients varying between 6% and 8%. The road gives way to a gravelled surface for 1,200 metres which is still accessible with road tyres. Rejoin the Route des Crosets, then set off on a short descent before heading in the direction of Champoussin. The final two kilometres are fairly easy-going, despite the 4% gradient. When you reach the summit, remember to capture the moment next to the red Valais cycling signpost with the majestic Dents du Midi as a backdrop.

Start: Champéry – Cable car station (1033 m)
Destination: Col de Champoussin (1586 m)

Author's recommendation

Stop for a bite to eat at the “Sur Coux” cantine and enjoy some tasty treats on the panoramic terrace.

Technical information

  • Altitude

    1587 m 1033 m

  • Ascent

    553 m

  • Descent

    0 m

  • Technique

    Bewertung: 4 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Stamina

    Bewertung: 4 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Experience

    Bewertung: 6 von 5.0 Punkten

  • Landscape

    Bewertung: 6 .0 von 5.0 Punkten

Public transport

Take the SBB train to Aigle, then change to a regional train line to take you to Champéry.

Approach

From the A9 motorway, take exit 18 to St-Triphon and cross the bridge over the Rhône towards Monthey. Follow the signs for Champéry and pass through the villages of Troistorrents and Val-d’Illiez before reaching your destination.

Parking

Free parking is available in the village centre, close to Champéry railway station.

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 about the destination Region Dents du Midi:

Region Dents du Midi

Literature

The tourist office in Champéry has got brochures and information material about cycling in the region.

Road Cycling Map Valais

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25'000: 1304 Val d'Illiez / 1284 Monthey