Vaud Jura tour
Overview
Intro
As a mountain range, the Swiss Jura tends to play second fiddle to the Alps in terms of cycling appeal. Yet this region between Geneva and Basel is a cyclists’ paradise: numerous relatively quiet roads follow the gentle topography amid pristine landscapes.
Description
This moderately challenging loop takes in the Joux valley, home of premium watchmaking for more than two centuries. Starting at Le Pont, the leg along Lake Joux, its tranquil waters edged with evergreens, calls to mind the Far North.
Le Brassus is the starting point of the ascent to the Marchairuz pass (alt. 1447m). Featuring a rise of 400m over seven kilometres – and gradients in excess of 8% – this pass often hosts the Tour de Romandie, an annual challenge that attracts stars from the world’s professional peloton. Following a rapid descent, the loop hugs the foot of the Vaud Jura while offering a magnificent alpine panorama to the south. Not long after Montricher, it is time make the ascent to the Mollendruz pass (alt. 1180m), which benefits from a very steady gradient not exceeding 6% over 9km. That is followed by a few bends further down before arriving back in Le Pont.
Tip from the Grand Tours Project:
Le Pont is a great spot for a meal of fish freshly caught from the lake: fera, trout and pike are typical local specialities.
www.grandtoursproject.com
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
| Type |
Performance
|
|---|---|
| Ascent |
1120 m
|
| Descent |
1120 m
|
| Distance |
56 km
|
| Physical requirements |
Medium
|
| Season |
June - October
|
