Make sure you do a few training rides on easier cols before tackling this climb! The Semnoz is one of the top 10 cyclo-climbing challenges in Savoie Mont Blanc.
As the road climbs north-facing slopes covered with shady forests, one positive aspect of this ride is that you will nearly always have cool conditions.
The route begins in the centre of Annecy at the “hospital roundabout”. At the top of the Avenue du Trésum, take the Boulevard de la Corniche and then follow the D41. After 3 km the gradient eases slightly, allowing you to get your breath back for the long, sustained effort needed to get to the summit.
As well as offering a challenging bike ride, the Semnoz is also an outstanding viewpoint. Being a relatively high (1699 m) and isolated mountain, standing guard over the northern Alps, it offers a 360° panorama that encompasses the high peaks of western Switzerland, the Mont Blanc Massif, the Aravis, the Beaufortain, the Vanoise, the Bauges and the Chartreuse.
- Sport
Le Semnoz from the North
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The numbers speak for themselves: more than 17 km at an average gradient in excess of 7%, with several kilometres steeper than 9%.
The view from the top will be your best reward on this climb.
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Sport Le Semnoz from the North Annecy
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Free access.
Period of practice
From 15/03 to 30/10.
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