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FR-74 The Châtel Ridges – Mountain biking: 38 km, 1,450 m elevation gain, 8 passes

Author description

Author : Christian Vailloud
Course : carried out in July 2026
Departure : Châtel: there is only one pay-and-display car park; park near the river.

Tourist information

A varied Franco-Swiss route that follows the River Dranse along a pleasant gravel path and then through lovely woodland. On the Swiss border, there are beautiful mountain landscapes with harmless cows. A bird’s-eye view of Châtel, followed by Lake Conche – the perfect spot for a picnic. Views of Switzerland as you head downhill, and finally Lake Châtel.

Technical specifications

The route is 35 % on road, 48 % on track, and 16 % on trail. I can’t say what percentage is suitable for cycling as it depends so much on each person’s ability.
We start with 5 kilometres of gravel cycle path, followed by the toughest bit: a gruelling 6-kilometre climb on road at 10 %. The first two gravel passes are less steep. The Col de Chétillon, rated S3, will require some tough pushing; it’s a return route, so it’s not compulsory. The next two S2 climbs are more rideable, and depending on your fitness level, you’ll walk more or less. You’ll pass through the very busy Super-Châtel (water point at the cable car). You can have a bite to eat by the lake or at the Swiss Col de la Conche (tables available). The road becomes bumpy again for the final Swiss pass, and you’ll descend to Châtel via the Pas de Morgins.

8 passes

1 – Col de Recon (border pass, Col de Recon)	1,734 m	FR-74-1735
2 – Braitaz Pass (on the border, Conche Pass)	1,789 m	FR-74-1789
3 – Col de Chétillon (border pass, Col de Chétillon)	1,872 m	FR-74-1873
4 – Col de Reculaz (border pass, Col du Croix)	1,805 m	FR-74-1803
5 – Col du Saix	1,539 m	FR-74-1535
6 – Col de la Conche	1,687 m	CH-VS-1653
7 – Portes de Culet	1,787 m	CH-VS-1787
8 – Not Morgins (on the border, not Morgins)	1,369 m	FR-74-1370

Keywords : Dranse, Switzerland, Châtel, Centcols

Openrunner link, interactive map, profile, track : https://www.openrunner.com/route-details/24581699

This itinerary is provided for information only. The author accepts no liability, nor that of the Club des Cent Cols, for any imponderables due to the cyclist himself, the equipment used or anything to do with the road, tracks and paths, their surroundings or other users.

Photos