Cycling up the Col des Aravis
Published on 02/04/2025 by CAMPASUN
Holidays on the road to the Grandes Alpes are the ideal time to combine diving in nature and physical activity. What better way then to discover the landscapes of Haute-Savoie by bike? By staying at the 3-star campsite Campasun Clos du Pin, you have a perfect base camp for beautiful walks on two wheels. Why not take the opportunity to conquer one of the most impressive passes in France, the Aravis pass? You have the choice to attack it from the north side, passing by Saint-Jean-de-Sixt and La Clusaz, or from the south side, via Flumet. Although this pass is famous for hiking and skiing thanks to its many resorts, it is undeniably a captivating challenge for cyclists, whose efforts will be rewarded by a sublime panorama!
Presentation of the Col des Aravis
The Col des Aravis, located on the border between Savoie and Haute-Savoie, connects the station of La Clusaz to La Giettaz. Some sources attest that it peaks at 1,486 m, others indicate 1,498 m altitude. What is certain is that this pass enchants holidaymakers with its unique view of the Mont-Blanc. Star of cycling, he made his appearance 19 times in the Grande Boucle, between 1947 and 2023, which makes it an essential passage of the Tour de France.You are passionate about bike rides? So know that the ascent of the Aravis pass promises you a challenge to the height of its history, and this, if we choose to attack this summit from the north side via Saint-Jean-de-Sixt or from the south side from Flumet. Do not miss this activity during your stay in the Northern Alps!
Cycling up the Col des Aravis on its north side: Saint-Jean-de-Sixt and la Clusaz
The starting point of the bike climb of the Aravis pass on the north side, starting from Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, is 7 minutes (4 km) from our campsite Campasun Le Clos du Pin.
The total distance of the cycle route is 10.3 km, with a difference in altitude of 527 m. The average slope is 5%, with a maximum of 7.5%. To give you an idea of the difficulty of this climb, know that it is classified in 2nd category by the Tour de France.
The ascent starts slowly, from Saint-Jean-de-Sixt to La Clusaz, but as soon as you arrive at this station, the slope becomes stronger. Thereafter, it remains rather constant until the summit of the Aravis pass. After the hamlet of Les Converses, the road leaves the inhabited areas to immerse you in a panorama as beautiful as virgin of human traces. Throughout this climb, you will have a breathtaking view of the Alps, and once at the summit, Mont-Blanc will reveal all its charms.
The time of the climb depends on your pace: at 7 km/h, it will take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the summit. But if you are a faster cyclist, know that at 19 km/ h, the climb only takes about 30 minutes. The ascent of the Col des Aravis, between Savoie and Haute-Savoie, is an essential activity to practice during your holidays in the south-east of France!
Flumet for an ascent of the Aravis pass by bike on the southern slope
The ascent of the Aravis pass by the southern slope, from Flumet, is a popular activity for cyclists in search of sensations. According to our experience and the testimonials of the guests of our campsite in Haute-Savoie, this ascent is more difficult than the one on the north side via Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, due to the steep slopes.
Please note that Flumet is located 42 minutes (26 km) from the Clos du Pin. For this discovery of the Aravis pass by bike , you will cover a route of 11.7 km with a difference in altitude of 606 m and an average slope of 6%. It should be noted that the climb reaches a maximum slope of 8%.About 1 km after your departure from Flumet, the road will begin with a descent into the gorges of the Arrondine. Then, crossing the station La Giettaz, you will start the climb. Beware of the small unlit tunnel before reaching the top of the Aravis pass, where you will enjoy the coveted landscape!
Information to know before planning an ascent of the Col des Aravis
Before conquering the Col des Aravis, proper preparation is essential.
What is the best time to climb the Col des Aravis by bike?
For a safe ascent of the Col des Aravis, it is necessary to plan this activity when the weather conditions are ideal. The weather must be sunny with moderate temperatures for a pleasant experience.
Les meilleurs moments pour parcourir la Route des Grandes Alpes sont de mi-juin à mi-juillet, puis de fin août à mi-octobre, avec une préférence pour septembre. Ces périodes offrent des températures douces et une circulation réduite. Vous profitez ainsi pleinement du paysage. En revanche, le mois d’août doit être évité en raison du trafic intense qui rend la montée plus dangereuse.Cependant, la montagne étant imprévisible, le climat peut changer rapidement. Nous vous recommandons de consulter régulièrement les prévisions avant de partir à l’ascension du Col des Aravis, que ce soit par le versant nord de Saint-Jean-de-Sixt ou le versant sud via Flumet. Les informations vérifiées et mises à jour sont disponibles sur le site officiel de l’office du Tourisme de Thônes.
What equipment to take for cycling in the Col des Aravis?
The following equipment is needed for a serene ascent of the Col des Aravis:
- A suitable bike: you will go up the south side or through Saint-Jean-de-Sixt? In any case, a mountain bike is highly recommended. If it is also electric, the climb will be easier. Don’t forget to check that the front and rear lights are working, especially if you go through dark areas like the tunnels before the top of the Aravis pass, which you will find by choosing Flumet as your starting point.
- A repair kit: a kit including a pump, a tire changer, a spare tube and various other tools, is essential for a worry-free climb.
- Appropriate clothing: those specifically designed for cyclists are highly recommended. They will protect you from the frequent temperature variations around Mont-Blanc and also ensure your visibility on the Route des Grandes Alpes. Of course, bring your helmet to ensure your safety throughout the climb to the top of the Aravis pass.
With this equipment, you will be perfectly prepared to conquer one of the most popular mountain passes in the French Alps, located between Savoie and Haute-Savoie.
Frequently asked questions about the Aravis pass
What services are available at the Col des Aravis?
A wide range of practical services is available to visitors who pass through Haute-Savoie or Savoie. They will be able to enjoy the restaurants and relax at the tables of the cafés, while enjoying a breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc. These establishments are ideal for a well-deserved break after an ascent on the southern or northern slopes of the Col des Aravis. Finally, car parks are available to park your vehicle in the Northern Alps.
Are there charging stations for bicycles at the Aravis pass?
Yes, if you have an electric bike, you can be reassured. E-bike charging stations are available to recharge your batteries during your climb via Saint-Jean-de-Sixt, La Clusaz, or Flumet.
When is the Aravis pass accessible?
This pass, connecting the stations La Clusaz and La Giettaz, is open all year. The only times you can’t access it is during exceptionally heavy snowfall.
Book now your stay at Camping Campasun Le Clos du Pin and start cycling up the Aravis pass! Take advantage of our beautiful location to walk the road of Savoie or Haute-Savoie, admire the Mont-Blanc and live an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
