Col de Joux Plane from Samoëns

Route overview

This ride suits climbers looking for a short but steep climb with nearly 1000 m of ascent over 12 km.

12.4 km climb from Samoëns to Col de Joux Plane, France, gaining 990 m.

Starting at Samoëns (709 m), the route ascends 12.4 km to Col de Joux Plane at 1699 m. The climb begins right after 0.3 km and extends almost the entire route with an average gradient of 8.2% and a maximum of 17.9%. This sustained climb has 10.3 km over 5% gradient, including 7.9 km over 8%. The first half gains 40% of the total elevation. The surface is mostly paved (93%) with a section of 7% gravel or unpaved over 0.8 km. Nearly all the distance is on minor roads (92%), mainly the D 354 for 7 km. There is 0.8 km on paths. It passes through Les Moulins, Les Fontanys, La Grangiat, Les Plaignes, Les Combes, Le Coudray, Lachat, Chantemerle, Les Turches, and Mévoutier. Water is available at 0.8 km and 9.5 km but expect no café, shop, or water from 1.7 km to 9.5 km (7.8 km). At the start in Samoëns there are cafés, a market, bike shops and toilets. At the finish near Col de Joux Plane a restaurant is close by. The route lies beneath peaks including La Bourgeoise (1772 m) at 9.7 km, Pointe de Chamossière (1889 m) at 10.7 km, Tête du Vuargne (1825 m) and Le Ranfolly (1770 m) at 11.8 km.

Highlights

• Col de Joux Plane summit at 1699 m
• Start in Samoëns with cafés and shops
• Viewpoint La Jaÿsinia near 1.7 km
• Peaks La Bourgeoise and Pointe de Chamossière nearby

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

53 min

Best months

May to Oct — daily highs of 17–25 °C in those months

Know before you go

• No café, shop or water for 7.8 km from 1.7 km to 9.5 km
• 7.9 km with gradient over 8%
• 2.5 km with gradient over 10%
• 7% of route is gravel or unpaved

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