The Semnoz mountain, a view over lake Annecy
12-11-2025
The following passes can be done after a tour of Lake Annecy, we advise you to do it clockwise, so that you are closer to the lake and to go to the col de Leschaux, which brings you to Col de Semnoz straight after. The tour of Lake Annecy can be really crowded so ride early, before 9 AM if you do not want to be slowed down.
Col de Semnoz
|
Distance from Annecy train station |
Maximum altitude |
Length and gradient of the Col |
Tour de France Categorie |
|
1 km |
1 670 m |
17.4 km at 6.97% |
Hors categorie |
A favorite local climb that features a steady, relentless gradient winding up from the shores of Annecy. The road is well-maintained and popular with both amateurs and local racing clubs, especially during the annual September cycling events that reunites more than 150 riders.
The summit offers an unparalleled 360-degree view that spans from the Bauges mountains to the snow-capped Mont-Blanc massif.
The Tour de France went 2 times on the Semnoz, the last being the arrival of the 20th stage of the 100th edition in 2013.
To get to the Marquisat, the start of the climb from Annemasse, it is only a 1 hour train, direct or via an easy connection in La Roche-sur-Foron, and then a 5 minutes ride from Annecy train station, going through the historic part of the city.
© Tristan Shu/Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Tourisme
Col de Leschaux
|
Distance from Annecy train station |
Maximum altitude |
Length and gradient of the Col |
Tour de France Categorie |
|
5 km |
897 m |
11.9 km at 3.7% |
Categorie 3 |
A gentle, accessible pass that acts as a gateway to the Bauges massif and provides a scenic route toward the Semnoz. The road offers a smooth path that is ideal for those who prefer steady pedaling over extreme gradients, making it a great option for riders of various experience levels.
It is an often-overlooked beauty that provides excellent views of the rolling green valleys below. It also allows access to the col de Semnoz for the most adventurous.
It has seen 3 Tour de France, the last one being in 2013.
To get to Sevrier, the start of the ascension, only a 20 minutes ride, following the coast of the Annecy lake from Annecy train station which is accessible through a 1 hour train from Annemasse, direct or via an easy connection in La Roche-sur-Foron.
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