Col de la Ramaz
A difficult but rewarding ride for those warming up to the Col de Joux Plane
Another Tour classic this time with beautiful views of Mont Blanc from the mountain pastures of the Praz de Lys.
The Col de la Ramaz is a fantastic climb offering stunning Alpine scenery and a challenging but steady ascent. The preferred route begins in the small town of Mieussy, situated on the D907 in the Vallรฉe Verte, and follows the road for 14km at an average gradient of 7%.
Climb overview:
The lower slopes feature classic alpine switchbacks, winding through picturesque chalet-style houses before opening up into lush meadows, where the sound of cowbells accompanies the ride. As you ascend, the impressive rock faces of the Pointe de Marcelly dominate the right-hand side, while the Col de Foron and Haute Pointe rise to the left. The road itself is often marked with the names of Tour de France favourites, adding to the sense of riding through cycling history.
Approaching the upper slopes, the route passes through avalanche tunnels and the steepest sections of the climb. While not as severe as the Col de Joux Plane, the combination of gradient and a rough road surface worn by winter freeze-thaw cycles makes this part particularly demanding. The view from the tunnels offers a dramatic perspective of the altitude gained since leaving Mieussy, with a breathtaking drop below.
Reaching the ski station of Sommand, identified by its open alpine bowl and ski lifts, the gradient eases significantly, allowing for a moment of recovery before the final push to the summit at 1,619m.
Climbing times:
- A fit rider pushing hard can expect to reach the summit in around 50 minutes.
- A steady pace sees most riders complete the climb in 65โ70 minutes.
- The climb is considered more forgiving than the Joux Plane, as it allows strong riders to maintain a steady rhythm without requiring all-out efforts just to keep moving.
The descent:
The descent into the ski resort of Praz-de-Lys is relatively straight and steady but remains fast, narrow, and slightly bumpy. The empty ski lifts of summer create an eerie atmosphere as you pass beneath them at speed. Once beyond the resort, the road steepens dramatically, transitioning into a series of classic hairpin bends that require sharp braking before launching into gravity-assisted accelerations towards the next corner.
After reaching the D902 at the Pont des Gets, the ride isnโt over, thereโs still a 20-minute climb into Les Gets before enjoying the final 5km descent into Morzine.
Tour de France history:
The Col de la Ramaz last featured in the Tour de France in 2003 during a gruelling 226km stage from Lyon to Morzine. French favourite Richard Virenque claimed victory after an exhausting six hour ride.
Key stats:
Distance: 60km
Time: 3โ4 hours
Highest point: 1,619m (Col de la Ramaz)
Vertical gain: 1,350m
With its mix of scenic beauty, historic significance, and a rewarding challenge, the Col de la Ramaz is a must-ride for cyclists exploring the region.
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Cycle hire
Bike Hire in Morzine
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Mountain bike hire
Located just 50 metres from the tourist office and 200 metres from the Pleney cable car, this mountain bike hire shop has everything you need for a summer holiday in the French Alps.
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Mountain bike hire
This company offers a range of bikes for hire, including downhill and enduro mountain bikes, fatbikes, cross-country bikes, road bikes, and family bikes.
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Mountain bike hire
This MTB store is located on Rue du Bourg, just up the hill from Bar Robinson in the centre of Morzine.
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Mountain bike hire
This trusted Les Gets bike shop has been offering quality rentals, top gear from leading brands, and expert mechanical support for years.
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Mountain bike hire
This company offers a great range of mountain bikes for hire, from full-suspension downhill and enduro bikes to full-suspension models for kids.
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Road bike hire
This road biking specialist shop is located on Rue du Bourg, just up the hill from Bar Robinson in the centre of Morzine.
What to see
Sights in Morzine
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Alta Lumina enchanted night walk
In the heart of the French Alps, in the village of Les Gets, experience a night walk in an enchanted forest like no other. Set off along the path of a travelling music-maker and his hot-air balloon, and follow his incredible journey beyond the mountains.
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Mechanical Music museum
Explore the mechanical music museum where you will learn about the history and development of mechanical musical instruments through the ages.
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Les Gorges du Pont du Diable
A great walk through a beech forest and dramatic limestone gorges carved by the Dranse de Morzine. Expect vibrant rock colours, safe cliffside paths and even a daring glass walkway you can try.
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Trout Fish Farm
Visit the local fish farm to discover how arctic char and trout are raised in alpine waters. Join a tour, try your hand at fishing or pick up fresh fish to take home.
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Pointe de Nyon hiking and trails
The Pointe de Nyon area is dedicated to hiking trails and discovering the fauna that lives in the mountains.
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Slate workshop
Discover and explore the slate mines of Morzine.