Semnoz
France, europe
11.3 km
1,660 m
hard
Year-round
# Semnoz (Crêt de Chatillon): A Classic Alpine Climb
Perched at 1,660 meters (5,446 feet) in France's Bauges range in Haute-Savoie, Semnoz—also known as Crêt de Chatillon—is one of those legendary Alpine passes that actually lived up to the hype. The road up (D41) is fully paved, which is always a relief, but don't let that fool you—some sections hit a gnarly 11.4% grade that'll definitely keep you honest on the pedals or behind the wheel.
The pass has serious cycling credentials too; it's been tackled by Tour de France riders over the years. At the summit, there's a modest ski station where you can grab a bite and soak in the views.
**Getting to the top? You've got options:**
Coming from **Quintal** is the shortest but spiciest route: 11.3 km with 922 meters of elevation gain averaging 8.2%. If you're starting from **Col de Leschaux**, it's a more relaxed 13.4 km climb at 5.7% gradient, gaining 763 meters. From **Annecy**, you're looking at 17.4 km and 1,212 meters of elevation gain (averaging 7%), which hits the sweet spot for most climbers. Finally, the **St Jorioz** approach stretches to 22.78 km with 1,202 meters of gain at a mellow 5.2%—perfect if you want to take your time and savor the Alpine scenery.
No matter which route you choose, you're in for stunning mountain views and a climb that'll feel rewarding from start to finish.
Where is it?
Semnoz is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.7972, 6.1047
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 11.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,660 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 45.7972, 6.1047
Related Roads in europe
moderateWhere is Col des Aravis?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: Col des Aravis, a mountain pass chilling at 1,487m (almost 4,900ft), straddling the Haute-Savoie and Savoie departments in France. You'll find it in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, snuggled in the southeast of the country, right on the famous Route des Grandes Alpes. This baby's paved, so no need for monster truck tires, but get ready for hairpin heaven! It's known as the D909 (Route du Col des Aravis) and is the lowest pass in the Aravis range. Plus, it's a Tour de France legend! Be warned, some sections get a little spicy with gradients hitting 10%. The pass stretches for 19.2 km (almost 12 miles), connecting the village of Flumet to La Clusaz. Heads up if you're tackling it in July or August; the heat and traffic can get real. But trust me, it's SO worth the drive. Coming from La Clusaz, the view that greets you at the top, with Mont-Blanc popping out from the other mountains, is breathtaking. Oh, and there's this adorable chapel dedicated to St. Anne, built way back in 1624 for traveler protection. Seriously, add this to your bucket list!
hardCol de la Met is one of the highest mountain roads in Europe
🇫🇷 France
# Col de la Met Nestled in the Savoie department of southeastern France, Col de la Met is a serious high-altitude adventure sitting at 2,750m (9,022ft). This is genuine mountain territory—part of the Rhône-Alpes region where the views are absolutely incredible. Here's the thing: this isn't your typical scenic drive. The 6km route from the paved D1006 climbs a brutal 679m with an average gradient of 11.31%, which means you're looking at some seriously steep terrain. The road is completely unpaved—it's basically a chairlift access trail that only opens during summer months. You'll need a proper 4x4 to even attempt this one. The trail is rough, unforgiving, and definitely one of France's wildest roads. But if you've got the right vehicle and the nerve? The payoff is spectacular. From the summit, you'll take in sweeping views of Lac de Mont Cenis and the surrounding alpine peaks. It's the kind of road that makes you feel like you've genuinely conquered something. This is peak season adventure driving—literally and figuratively.
moderateWhere is Punta Bagna?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Let's talk Punta Bagna, a seriously high peak in the Savoie department of France, clocking in at a lung-busting elevation above sea level. You'll find this gem nestled near the famous Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in southeast France. So, what's waiting for you at the top? Picture this: you roll up to the chairlift—yes, you can drive most of the way! The road isn’t paved for the chairlift. Some of the ramps have and the road leads you right to the Fréjus cableway top station. This road? It's a proper climb, and it's one of the highest roads in France! Word of warning: Mother Nature calls the shots here. Usually, from November to June, this road is a no-go zone, buried under snow, so plan your trip accordingly (weather permitting, of course!).
hardWhere is Kühtai Saddle?
🇦🇹 Austria
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Kühtai Saddle in Tyrol, Austria! This stunner of a pass, also called Kühtaisattel, sits way up high at 2,021m (6,633ft), right in the heart of the western Austrian Alps. Did you know the road here dates all the way back to 1628? It's since been paved, so you can enjoy a smooth ride on Road L13. This beauty stretches for 24.9km (15.47 miles) between Oetz and Sankt Sigmund im Sellrain, taking you on an east-west roller coaster. Because the Kühtai winter sports resort calls this saddle home, it's usually open year-round, although winter closures can happen. Get ready for a wild ride! This route is a biker's dream, packed with curves and hairpin turns that'll test your skills. Be warned: some seriously steep sections, like a punchy 17% gradient, will get your heart pumping! Heads up to truckers: the western side is a no-go. The scenery? Absolutely epic!