
A Very Relaxing Drive with Nice Views to Col des Mosses in the Swiss Alps
Switzerland, europe
32.4 km
1,452 m
moderate
Year-round
# Col des Mosses: A Swiss Alpine Adventure
Ready for an epic drive through the Swiss Alps? Col des Mosses is calling your name. This stunning mountain pass sits at 1,452m (4,763ft) in the canton of Vaud and has become legendary among cyclists and road-trippers alike—it's even a favorite of the Tour de France!
The fully paved Route 11 stretches 32.4 km (20.13 miles) between charming Château-d'Œx and the town of Aigle, offering two distinctly different experiences depending on which direction you tackle it.
**Coming from Château-d'Œx?** You're in for the gentler ride. The 14 km ascent climbs 521 meters with an average gradient of 3.7% (maxing out at 8%). Sure, you'll encounter more traffic and pass through villages that'll slow you down, but the road quality is solid and the journey feels more relaxed. Plus, there's an absolutely gorgeous section through a gorge alongside a wild mountain river that'll take your breath away.
**Attacking from Aigle?** Now that's where things get spicy. The 18.8 km climb gains a whopping 1,028 meters with a steeper average of 5.5%—and this is where the real fun happens. Wind through postcard-perfect villages nestled in the foothills, each one tempting you to slow down and soak in the scenery.
The best part? This road stays open year-round, so you can experience Alpine beauty whenever the mood strikes. Whether you're a seasoned driver or just chasing incredible mountain vistas, Col des Mosses delivers on every level.
Where is it?
A Very Relaxing Drive with Nice Views to Col des Mosses in the Swiss Alps is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.6274, 8.2154
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 32.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,452 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.6274, 8.2154
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