
Where is Alpage d'Eison?
Switzerland, europe
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in the Swiss Alps, Canton of Valais, headed to Alpage d'Eison, a legit high-altitude pasture where the cows chill all summer. We're talking classic Swiss vibes here, people!
This place is tucked away in the Val d'Hérens, southwest of Sion, hanging out on the slopes above the village of Saint-Martin. Think postcard-perfect Pennine Alps with 4,000-meter peaks all around.
Once you reach the top, it's like stepping back in time. Think old-school stone and wooden buildings, including the super cute Chapelle de L'A Vieille (you gotta snap a pic!). Some of the huts have been turned into cozy little guesthouses. Plus, there's a shop slinging local goodies – cheese, anyone? – and a snack bar to refuel after the drive.
Speaking of the drive, buckle up! The road is unpaved and narrow – like, squeeze-by narrow. In fact it's practically a one-lane track. Get ready for some serious technical driving because you'll be navigating about 12 hairpin turns on a bumpy, rugged surface.
The climb starts in Saint-Martin and stretches for about 10.7km. It’s a solid ascent of 952 vertical meters, with an average gradient of almost 9%. But keep in mind, some parts are steeper than others!
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Difficulty
- hard
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