The road to Col du Lachens isn’t an easy one
France, europe
11.4 km
1,714 m
hard
Year-round
# Col du Lachens: France's Ultimate Mountain Pass
Nestled in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region at 1,714 meters (5,623 feet), Col du Lachens sits right on the border between Var and Alpes-Maritimes departments in France's southeastern corner. This peak, also known as Mont du Lachens, holds the distinction of being Var's highest mountain and sits within the stunning Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park.
The drive up is pure adventure—the Route Forestière du Lachens stretches 11.4 kilometers (7.08 miles) from Col de Clavel on the D21, gaining a punchy 750 meters of elevation along the way. With an average gradient of 6.57%, you'll feel that climb, but the whole route is paved, which is a plus. Fair warning though: the road surface is pretty rough in places, and it's narrow, so take your time and watch for the tight spots.
Once you reach the summit, you'll find a military installation, but that's not what makes this place legendary—it's the paragliding. Lachens was once one of France's most celebrated flying sites, and it still hosts major paragliding competitions as home to the National Free Flight Centre. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just craving spectacular Alpine views, this mountain delivers an unforgettable experience.
Where is it?
The road to Col du Lachens isn’t an easy one is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.3610, 1.6376
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 11.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,714 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.3610, 1.6376
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