Road biking is a favourite summer activity in the valley and visitors to Samoëns will not be disappointed by what’s on offer. There are some world class routes to choose from, including the famous Col de Joux Plane which has featured in multiple Tour de France races over the years. Regarded by some as the toughest road bike climb in the Haute Savoie, the Col de Joux Plane has been the scene of some dramatic events in Tour de France history. For all the road-bikers out there - this is definitely one to conquer!
Samoëns is the start point and base for many fantastic rides for all levels, all very different and if they aren't enough, just 20 minutes ride away, a further 8 rides beginning for even the most experienced roadie. You can download all the GPX's here or individually below.
Distance: 24km, Vertical: 300m, Max gradient: 6%
Superb riding through the Giffre Valley, along the river through Sixt Fer a Cheval climbing up to the famous nataional park Fer a Cheval with it's dozen enormous waterfalls and breathtaking cliffs. A good beginner / intermediate ride as only a gentle climb and plenty of cafes for a coffee stop on the way! Check out the cool air as you cross one of several mountain streams reaching the valley floor.
Distance: 33km, Vertical: 537m, Max gradient: 8%
Some great views of the valley, with a solid climb.
Download the GPX of Samoens - Taninges - Morillon - Morillon 1100 Les Esserts - Samoens.
Distance: 50km, Vertical: 531m
Start heading towards Taninges, then Mieussy. At the roundabout before St Jeoire, straight over then left at the second roundabout. From there go through Cormand then follow Chatillon-sur-Cluses, then head back to Samoens. Good intermediate ride with one short and one long (20mins) climb back up to Chatillon
Download the GPX of Samoens - Mieussy - Marignier - Samoens.
Distance: 62km, Vertical: 700m, Max gradient: 9%
At Mieussy turn right and wind up the quiet mountain roads. Great cafe for a pause in Megevette! Then head back via Saint-Jeoire.
Download the GPX of Samoens - Mieussy - Megevette - St Jeoire - Samoens.
Distance: 74km, Vertical: 1744m, Max gradient: 13%
Ride through the beautiful French villages, and climb to the top of Praz-de-Lys, overlooking Geneva and its lake. One for the climbers!
Download the GPX of Morillon - Col de la Ramaz - Col de l'Encrenaz - Samoens.
Distance: 72km, Vertical: 885m, Max gradient: 9.4%
Fantastic ride with an the ideal break point at the Lac du Mole. Pass through some beautiful countryside and stop in Bonneville for coffee!
Download the GPX for Samoens - Bonneville - Saint-Jeoire - Samoens.
Distance: 50km, Vertical: 1279m, Max gradient 15%, average 8.2%
Download the GPX Samoens - Col de Joux Plane - Morzine - Les Gets - Taninges - Samoens
This ride offers stunning views, beautiful mountain lakes just waiting for you to cool off, tough climb and long descents. Only open in the summer, this route is usually covered in snow from December to April. Stop in Morizine for a snack and continue up the Col de Plain-Joux to Avoriaz past the beautiful lake Montriond to make a real day of it - 81km and 2300m vertical climb!
Distance: 94km, Vertical: 1402m, Max gradient: 11% (briefly!)
Undulating ride with some great climbs and views. Pass through Morzine and Les Gets, ideal for a break! Cracking descent after you reach the peak of the Col de Jambaz.
Download the GPX Samoens - Megevette - Col de Jambaz - Morzine - Samoens.
Distance: 132 km, Vertical: 2504m, Max gradient: 11%
One of the most beautiful climbs in the area often included in the Tour de France. This version includes another climb to the Col des Aravis, but still a great circuit.
Download the GPX Samoens - Col de la Colombière - Col des Aravis - Morillon.
Distance: 211km, Vertical: 3891m, Max gradient: 17%
Download the GPX Morillon - Col du Corbier - Abondance - Martigny - Col des Montets - Chamonix - Morillon.
Discount for all Alps Accommodation customers - you just need to mention the name of your accommodation.
Tel: 0033 (0)4 50 34 93 67) - website
Rental of normal bikes and electric bikes. 10% discount for all our customers, reservations are made by email or phone.
Tel: 00 33 (0)4 50 89 82 30 - website
If you need a bike fitting or to browse a fantastic selection of all types of new bikes, visit Culture Velo in Sallanche (30 mins drive from Samoens). Professional advice, friendly team and great value. Busy shop during the season so best to call in advance.
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