
Portes de Culet
Switzerland, europe
42 km
1,787 m
hard
Year-round
# Portes de Culet: A Swiss Alpine Challenge
Looking for a proper mountain workout? The Portes de Culet pass in Switzerland's Valais canton delivers exactly that at 1,787 meters (5,862 feet) above sea level.
Starting from the village of Morgins, you'll tackle Rue du Vigneron—a narrow, relentless stretch of tarmac that'll test your driving skills. The 4.2-kilometer climb packs in 478 meters of elevation gain, averaging a gnarly 11.38% gradient with some sections hitting a brutal 19%. Yeah, it's steep. Really steep.
But here's the thing: if you're up for the challenge, you'll be rewarded with some seriously stunning alpine scenery. Just take it steady, watch those hairpins, and enjoy the ride as you snake your way up this impressive Swiss pass.
Where is it?
Portes de Culet is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.7136, 7.9271
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 42 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,787 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.7136, 7.9271
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