
38 hairpin turns to Col de la Croix de Coeur in Switzerland
Switzerland, europe
43 km
2,178 m
hard
Year-round
# Col de la Croix de Coeur
Buckle up for one seriously epic ride! This high mountain pass sits at 2,178m (7,145ft) in Switzerland's Valais region, straddling the line between the Entremont and Martigny districts in the southwestern corner of the country.
The Route de la Croix-de-Coeur stretches 43 km (26 miles) from Sembrancher up to Riddes, and let me tell you—it doesn't pull any punches. You're looking at a mix of paved and unpaved terrain, with that final stretch rolling along a gravel track that'll keep you on your toes. The gradient ramps up to a gnarly 12% in places, and you'll navigate five tunnels and a whopping 38 hairpin turns. Fair warning: most of them aren't protected by guardrails, so confidence and steady hands are essential.
The payoff? Absolutely stunning panoramas. From the summit, you'll catch incredible views of the Combins and Mont Blanc to the south, while the Bernese Alps dominate the northern horizon. There's even a little restaurant up top (Restaurant La Croix-de-Coeur) where you can celebrate your conquest with a well-deserved meal, plus a parking area to catch your breath and snap some photos.
This isn't a casual Sunday drive—it's a thrilling mountain challenge that rewards the brave with unforgettable scenery.
Where is it?
38 hairpin turns to Col de la Croix de Coeur in Switzerland is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.5318, 8.3553
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 43 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,178 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.5318, 8.3553
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