How to reach the tourist office?
In cycling circles, the Joux-Plane pass is reputed as being one of the six most challenging passes in the French mountains, along with the Galibier, Izoard, Alpe d'Huez, Mont Ventoux and Tourmalet ascents.
The pass has often constituted a decisive stage for competitors in the Tour de France© and Dauphiné Libéré© cycle races. Cycling from Samoëns to the summit, quite apart from being a physical challenge that requires a good level of fitness, provides an opportunity for some wonderful views of the valley, followed by the Mont-Blanc range from its most majestic angle... The road is closed to heavy goods vehicles and is not a major route for traffic, much to the delight of cyclists.
A few key facts:
The route described here starts from Samoëns and follows the D354 road.
Start altitude: 721 m
Altitude at the top of the pass: 1,691 m
Height climbed: 970 m over a distance of 13.1 km, i.e. an average gradient of 7.4%, but with stretches at more than 10%.
Difficulty: very difficult.
For beginners, there is a road halfway up that takes you back to Samoëns along another route (via Les Turches and Les Combes).
Summer is Samoëns means a holiday in a small town full of old chalets and flower-decked balcones or in the renovated wooden farmhouses in the nearby hamlets. It means a whole range of leisure activities.
Rental and sale of sports equipment. A choice for all ages, tastes and levels, whether you are a skier, cross-country skier, snowboarder or snowshoe enthusiast, but also all types of bikes. The Anthonioz Ski team will be able to advise you.
Cyclists, this challenge is for you! Two departures: Samoëns and Morzine to reach the famous Joux Plane pass in a privileged way, the road being reserved for cyclists. A friendly refreshment station awaits you at the top.
Rando'bus is an original proposal for hiking in the Montagnes du Giffre thanks to the summer shuttle service. Use the destination's mobility network to hike for longer, without having to make the round trip.
After your walk, you can come and drink our hot chocolates, coffees, producer juices and taste our tarts and farm products. All the while enjoying the view of the valley and Mont-Blanc.
Les Cyclos du Coeur is a touring category road cycling event in Belgium, and RTL's star presenter Jean-Michel Zecca is taking up the challenge this year to climb the Col de Joux Plane. He will be accompanied by 400 cyclists. 😊
