
Travel guide to the top of Col des Annes
France, europe
11.96 km
1,721 m
moderate
Year-round
# Col des Annes
Perched at 1,721 meters (5,646 feet) above sea level in Haute-Savoie in south-eastern France, Col des Annes is one seriously impressive alpine pass. The entire route is paved, which is great news—though fair warning, you'll encounter plenty of gravel scattered across the asphalt, so take it easy through the curves.
What makes this climb special is the scenery. The road winds through gorgeous alpine pastures as it climbs higher, delivering those classic French Alps views that'll make you want to stop every five minutes for photos. Starting from Le Grand Bornand, you're looking at an 11.96 km climb with 808 meters of elevation gain—that's an average gradient of 6.7%, but here's the kicker: the final stretch ramps up to a punishing 15% average. The good news? The road stays relatively mellow until you pass a golf course at 1,055 meters, where things suddenly get serious and the real climbing begins.
You can typically access the pass year-round, which is convenient, though winter storms do occasionally force temporary closures during particularly nasty weather. It's one of the highest paved roads in the region, so the views and the challenge are definitely worth the effort.
Where is it?
Travel guide to the top of Col des Annes is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 47.0135, 3.1625
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 11.96 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,721 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 47.0135, 3.1625
Related Roads in europe
hardA paved road to Port de Pailheres heading deep into the Pyrenees
🇫🇷 France
Nestled in the French Pyrenees at a lofty 2,001m (6,565ft), Port de Pailhères is a seriously impressive high mountain pass in the Ariège department of southwestern France. The summit itself has a parking area where you can catch your breath and take in the views. The route to the top—known locally as D25—is entirely paved, though fair warning: it's pretty narrow and gets progressively wilder as you climb higher. Traffic is refreshingly minimal, which means you'll mostly have the mountain to yourself, though that also means the sense of exposure becomes more pronounced the further you go. It's actually one of only two paved passes in the French Pyrenees that break the 2,000m barrier (the other being the famous Col du Tourmalet). Expect to spend somewhere between 35 and 50 minutes driving straight through without stops, though honestly, you'll probably want to pause for photos. The climb is no joke either—those pesky mountain grades hit a chunky 15.9% near the summit. Legend has it the Tour de France cyclists have tackled this beast too. The full 26km (16.15 miles) stretch runs west to east, connecting Ax-les-Thermes with Mijanès. So whether you're a serious rider, a cyclist training for glory, or just someone who loves a killer mountain drive, this is one for the bucket list.
hardYukarıkent Geçidi
🇹🇷 Turkey
Okay, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for the Yukarıkent Geçidi, a seriously epic mountain pass straddling the Kars and Iğdır Provinces in eastern Turkey. We're talking about a high-altitude adventure here, topping out at a breathtaking 2,423 meters (that's 7,949 feet!). The D965 will be your asphalt ribbon to the top, winding its way between Ağrı and Kağızman. Be prepared for a fairly steep climb, punctuated by some tight hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills. And pro tip: keep an eye on the weather forecast, because this area is known for its intense winter storms. The scenery? Absolutely stunning! Get ready for panoramic views that will make your jaw drop!
moderateWhere is Ursoaia Pass?
🇷🇴 Romania
Alright, road trip lovers, let's talk about Ursoaia Pass! This beauty straddles the Cluj and Alba counties line in Romania, nestled in the northwestern part of the country within the stunning Apuseni Natural Park. Think rolling hills, fresh air, and a seriously off-the-beaten-path vibe. The road itself? It's a mix of pavement and gravel, known locally as...well, it's not really known for a name, just a winding strip that connects Albac (Alba County) in the south to Huedin (Cluj County) in the north. Be warned, though: those sections can get pretty snug. It's a roughly 23km (14 miles) stretch, perfect for those who love a bit of adventure. Now, for the seasonal reality check: winter hits hard up here. Usually, from November to April (give or take, depending on Mother Nature's mood), the pass is a no-go. So, plan your trip accordingly!
moderateLavarella Refuge
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: you're in the Italian Dolomites, smack-dab in the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park. You're heading to Rifugio Lavarella-Berghütte Lavarella, a mountain hut chilling at 2,045 meters (that's 6,709 feet!). This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. The 10.3-kilometer road up from Strada Provinciale 27 is unpaved and rugged – think 4x4 territory only! Private vehicles aren't allowed, so plan accordingly. The road climbs 391 meters, with an average gradient of around 3.79%. Keep your eyes peeled; the scenery is epic, and the hut, built way back in 1912, has some serious history!