
Things to Know Before Driving to Col des Anderets in the Western Swiss Alps
Switzerland, europe
7.5 km
2,031 m
moderate
Year-round
# Col des Andérets: A Swiss Alpine Adventure
Nestled high in the western Swiss Alps at 2,031m (6,663ft), Col des Andérets is a hidden gem in the Vaud canton that'll take your breath away—literally and figuratively. This scenic mountain pass sits in the charming municipality of Ormont-Dessus, and it's absolutely worth the drive.
The 7.5 km (4.66 miles) route winds from Col du Pillon up to Col de Voré, mostly following smooth asphalt with just a few short gravel sections (around 400-600m) to keep things interesting. The steeper bits stick to proper asphalt, so you won't have to worry too much about your tires.
Fair warning: this pass gets seriously snowed in during winter, so timing your visit for the warmer months is definitely recommended. But when conditions are good? Pure magic. The drive delivers jaw-dropping alpine scenery at every hairpin turn, and there's a quirky red pond near the summit that's become something of a local curiosity.
Cap off your drive with stunning views of Lake Arnen and the surrounding peaks. It's the kind of road that reminds you why Switzerland is legendary for mountain driving.
Where is it?
Things to Know Before Driving to Col des Anderets in the Western Swiss Alps is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.7492, 8.4532
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 7.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,031 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.7492, 8.4532
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