An Unforgettable Drive to Lac d’Emosson in the Swiss Alps
Switzerland, europe
6.2 km
1,970 m
moderate
Year-round
# Lac d'Emosson: A High-Alpine Hidden Gem
Nestled in the Swiss Alps near the French border, Lac d'Emosson sits pretty at 1,970m (6,463ft) elevation in the canton of Valais. This stunning high-mountain reservoir is a seriously underrated driving destination.
The paved road to the lake stretches just 6.2 km (3.85 miles) from the village of Finhaut, climbing a respectable 576 meters with an average gradient of 9.29%. Sure, you'll hit some steep pitches up to 16%, and the switchbacks near the top will keep you engaged, but here's the thing—the road is blissfully quiet. Traffic is minimal, which means you can actually enjoy the unbelievable views of Mont Blanc as you wind your way up. Built back in 1925, this road has serious character.
As you climb, you'll notice the scenery getting progressively more spectacular. The road typically opens from late May through October or early November, depending on snow conditions. Once you reach the top, you'll find a charming restaurant, a little chapel (Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-neiges de La Gueulaz), and a parking area. If you're feeling adventurous, you can continue on foot to Lac du Vieux Emosson, an even higher dam at 2,205m, built in 1955.
Pro tip: If you'd rather skip the driving entirely, check out the Barberine Railway—a jaw-dropping funicular built in 1920 with an 87% gradient. It's literally the world's steepest two-carriage funicular. The road to Emosson even hosted a Tour de France mountain finish, which tells you everything you need to know about its credentials.
Where is it?
An Unforgettable Drive to Lac d’Emosson in the Swiss Alps is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.9376, 8.2346
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 6.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,970 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.9376, 8.2346
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