Col de la Forclaz from Martigny

Route overview

This ride suits cyclists looking for a short but very steep climb with over 1000 m of elevation in under 12 km.

Col de la Forclaz climb from Martigny, Switzerland, 11.9 km with 1053 m gain.

The route starts in Martigny at 475 m and climbs steadily for 11.9 km to reach 1529 m at Col de la Forclaz. The main climbing section begins at 1.6 km and extends for 10.2 km, with an average gradient of 10.1% and a maximum of 22.2%. The climb is mostly on paved surfaces (93%), with minor gravel and unmapped sections (3% each). Road types along the route include 6 km of minor roads, 3.2 km on main roads (all without cycle lanes and with speed limits of 80 km/h or more), 1.7 km of quiet streets, and 0.7 km of path. The longest named road is route 203, ridden for 3.7 km. The route passes several places such as Plan-Cerisier at 2.7 km, Martigny-Croix also at 2.7 km, Le Brocard and Pied du Château at 3.9 km, La Fontaine at 4.8 km, and Le Cergneux at 5.8 km. There are facilities to refuel at the start, including cafés and a supermarket. A café named Le Tambourin is 0.1 km off route near the start, and a restaurant, Le Drapeau Suisse, is near 9.5 km. There is a long stretch of 6.4 km without cafés, shops, or drinking water between 2.6 km and 9 km. Bailout is possible at Martigny-Croix 2.2 km from the start.

Highlights

• Col de la Forclaz summit at 1529 m
• Steep climb up to 22.2% gradient
• Le Brocard and Pied du Château at 3.9 km
• Route 203 main road section

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

51 min

Know before you go

• 6.4 km longest stretch without café, shop, or water (km 2.6 to 9)
• 3.2 km on main roads without cycle lanes
• 3.2 km on roads with speed limits 80 km/h or more
• Maximum gradient 22.2% steepness

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.