Alpes de la Région du Léman Bike
Overview
Intro
A diverse and scenic stretch along Lac des Chavonnes, a deep-blue mountain lake. The highest part of the route with a spectacular panorama is reached high above Villars, before the racy descent begins into the Rhone Valley.
Description
The second stage of the route is much longer than the first: 55 kilometres and gains of more than 1500 metres in altitude demand good physical fitness. You start in Les Diablerets, which is located at the foot of the Diablerets massif in the Vaud Alps. Cycling along the La Grande Eau river, you pass close by the impressive and imposing Rochers de Champ rock face and large waterfall.
This is followed by a climb towards Col du Bretaye. It’s just under 20 kilometres and 1000 metres in elevation up to the high altitude pass. You pass below the gypsum pyramids – a true masterpiece of nature. Over centuries, the ancient limestone has been weathered into pointed pyramid shapes. The picturesque Lake Chavonnes also lies on the route. Surrounded by forest, it has a restaurant and invites you to not only enjoy refreshments but also a swim in the summer.
After crossing the pass at Col du Bretaye, there are gentle climbs and descents to the Refuge de Taveyanne restaurant. After some final refreshments and climbing the last 100 metres in altitude, you begin the descent to Bex. It’s more than 20 kilometres and 1500 metres in altitude on asphalt or gravel.
You also pass the Miroir de l’Argentine restaurant, which is located below the Arête de L’Argentine mountain chain. This stretch goes through beautiful woodland (particularly in the autumn), small villages and the gorge along the Avançon river. You can visit the salt mines shortly before entering the village of Bex. The final destination of this long stage is the village station; it’s the perfect place to take a stroll among the historic houses and fountains.
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
| Start location |
Les Diablerets
|
|---|---|
| Destination |
Bex
|
| Direction |
One way
|
| Ascent |
1550 m
|
| Descent |
2300 m
|
| Distance |
55 km
|
| Distance on tarred ways |
35 km
|
| Distance on natural surface |
19 km
|
| Singletrail (part of natural surface) |
1 km
|
| Technical requirements |
Difficult
|
| Physical requirements |
Difficult
|
| Theme |
Over a pass, With panoramic view
|
Quick Facts
Route number
