Cols of the Chablais

31-07-2026

The 2023 Annemasse-Morzine stage went through the Green valley (la vallée verte) and so, through the following passes. To get to Boëge, at the heart of the Vallée verte, and the start of col de Saxel, the stage went through Fillinges and went up in the isolated valley then to Fessy, on the Léman lake side. The runners went then straight to the Col de Cou and then Col du Feu to get to Lullin and from there, joined the Giffre valley, parallel to the Arve valley and leading to the Col de la Ramaz (accessible from Cluses) and then Col de Joux Plane.

Col de Saxel

Distance from Annemasse train station	Maximum altitude	Length and gradient of the Col	Tour de France Categorie
14.7 km	943 m	8 km at 4.7%	Categorie 3

It is a quieter, rolling pass that serves as a gateway into the heart of the Chablais region. It is often traversed during longer loops that navigate between the Arve Valley and the shores of Lake Geneva. The road is less steep than nearby giants, making it a pleasant transition point that allows riders to enjoy the dense, rolling green hills of the pre-Alps.

The Col the Saxel was on the road of the 14th stage of the 2023 Tour de France, departing from Annemasse to Morzine. To get to Boëge, the start of the ascension, plan for a 1 hour 30 minutes ride from Annemasse.

Once you reach the pass, a short detour takes you to Les Voirons, where a 360° view of Lake Geneva and the Mont Blanc range unfolds before you.

Col de Cou

Distance from Annemasse train station	Maximum altitude	Length and gradient of the Col	Tour de France Categorie
18 km	1 117 m	10 km at 6%	Categorie 1

Col de Cou ascent from Fessy

This pass acts as a strategic connection in the Chablais, bridging valleys and offering varied scenery. Beyond the panoramic views of the other side of lake Geneva and of the Swiss canton de Vaud, it is a rewarding climb that features intermittent forest sections and open meadows.

It is frequently included in routes designed for those seeking a more traditional, challenging Alpine climbing experience.

The tour de France went across on 6 occasions since 1969, the most recent being the 14th stage from Annemasse to Morzine in 2023. To get to Boëge, the start of the ascension, plan for a 1 hour 30 minutes ride from Annemasse or from the other side, to Thonon-les-Bains plan for a 30 minute train trip from Annemasse.

Col du Feu

Distance from Annemasse train station	Maximum altitude	Length and gradient of the Col	Tour de France Categorie
27 km	1 120 m	6 km at 8%	Categorie 1

A relatively short but punchy climb that is highly regarded for its pastoral surroundings. As you gain elevation, the road offers increasingly wide views that encompass both the nearby mountain ridges and the distant sparkles of Lake Geneva. It is a hidden gem for riders who prefer quieter roads and Savoyard countryside views.

This pass has only known one Tour de France stage in 2023, the 14th that was from Annemasse to Morzine. It offers a beautiful view over a mountain pasture filled landscape and Jura mountains beyond the lake as a background. To get to Orcier, the start of the ascension, plan for a 2 hour ride from Annemasse.

Col des Arces

Distance from Annemasse train station	Maximum altitude	Length and gradient of the Col	Tour de France Categorie
27 km	1 163 m	3 km at 7.6%	Undefined

The col des Arces is a way lesser known route to link Lullin, at the end of the “Vallée verte” to the rest of the valley

The Col des Arces is considered an alternate road for cyclists who prefer peaceful, narrow roads. It is characterized by its quiet, pastoral scenery and is generally regarded as an accessible climb, making it a popular choice for pacing practice or as part of a scenic loop.

Because of its location within the Vallée Verte, it is frequently combined with other nearby passes, such as the Col du Feu and Col des Moises, to create a varied and enjoyable route that offers views of both the Jura mountains and Lake Geneva.

Col des Moises

Distance from Annemasse train station	Maximum altitude	Length and gradient of the Col	Tour de France Categorie
27 km	1 121 m	4 km at 6.5%	Undefined

The Col des Moises is a quiet mountain pass located in the Haute-Savoie region, often favored by cyclists looking for an alternative to the busier Col de Cou. It is situated on the edge of the Plateau des Moises and provides a peaceful, narrower route through the landscape.

The pass is notable for its pastoral atmosphere and views of the surrounding area, including the Plateau des Moises peatlands and distant vistas of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman).