Morzine-Avoriaz / Cluses Route des Grandes Alpes® by bike

From Morzine-Avoriaz to Cluses via the Joux Plane pass and Samoëns

Itinerary North / South

↗ 939 m ↘ 1402 m

Even if the historical and signposted Route des Grandes Alpes® route keeps all its interest, this stage deviates from it. Starting from Morzine, it proposes to climb the Joux Plane pass (1,691 m), less difficult on this side. Its ascent is followed by a long descent to Samoëns, one of the most beautiful villages of Haute-Savoie. After Taninges, at the côte de Châtillon, the last bump before the descent to Cluses and the Arve valley, we suggest you to take a small road for a few kilometers away from the very dense road traffic at this place (poor road surface at the end).

Historical itinerary via Les Gets and the Col des Gets

To connect Morzine and Cluses, you can also take the Col des Gets (1 163 m), which is much easier to climb than the dreaded Col de Joux-Plane. This alternative, which is in fact the official route of the Route des Grandes Alpes®, allows you to discover Les Gets, a charming village and resort in the Haut Chablais region, very committed to a sustainable approach, where cycling has its place.

Itinerary South / North

↗ 1402 m ↘ 939 m

From Cluses and the Arve Valley, first climb towards Taninges. In Samoëns, you attack the first slopes of the Joux Plane pass (1,691 m), often crossed by the Tour de France, with several passages at 9 or 10%! To be done early in the morning to avoid overheating. Magnificent views on the Giffre Valley and the Mont Blanc. At the top of the pass, the momentum of the descent allows you to race down to the center of Morzine.

Not to be missed

• Morzine-Avoriaz : In the heart of the Franco-Swiss Portes du Soleil, Morzine-Avoriaz combines the charm of a beautiful village with the bold architecture of a resort with an international reputation. Morzine-Avoriaz has been a traditional cycling destination for over 40 years, hosting numerous cycling events.
• The Joux-Plane pass : a regular on the Tour de France, it is formidable, whether on the north side starting from Morzine or on the south side starting from Samoëns. An average slope of nearly 6.8% on the Morzine side and 8.7% on the Samoëns side, with peaks of over 10%!
• Samoëns : home of the stone cutters, Samoëns is not only one of the most beautiful villages of Haute-Savoie and the Alps. It is also one of those that has best preserved and embellished an exceptional historical, religious and architectural heritage. To be discovered and visited absolutely! 
• Cluses : pleasant city, with its museum of clock-making and screw-cutting and its villages-balconies.