Best mountain passes around Fessy are located in the Haute-Savoie region of France, offering routes through the Vallée Verte and Chablais areas. This area features diverse terrain, from gentle slopes to challenging climbs, connecting various valleys and providing access to the pre-Alps. The passes serve as natural crossings between different regions, characterized by their elevation and road conditions.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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After the effort, your reward at the top of the Col du Feu is a magnificent view of the peaks of the Chablais massif and Lake Geneva.
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The Col de Cou, at an altitude of 1,117 metres, takes you from the Vallée Verte to the Côte-en-Chablais region. Several roads lead there, which allows you to train by varying the routes and difficulties. The hardest climb is the one on the western slope from Fessy, with seven kilometres at an average of 7.5%.
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Nice climb just too steep, about 5%, and not too busy.
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Here you are at 1,117 meters above sea level. After an ascent of six kilometers coming from Orcier (north slope) and three kilometers from Lullin (south slope), you deserve a little break. The bar-restaurant located just a stone's throw away offers simple and rich cuisine. Enough to regain some strength for the rest of your day.
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A pretty little pass, quite rolling (5%) on a road away from the heavy traffic of the departmental road at its foot.
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Between the Pointe de Targaillan to the south and the Aiguille to the north, the Col de Cou is the crossing point between the Vallée Verte to the west and the Côte-en-Chablais region to the east, from where it is accessible from Draillant and Fessy. On the edge of the communes of Cervens and Habère-Poche, it is crossed at an altitude of 1,117 m[1] by the D12 road linking Thonon-les-Bains to Bonneville. This has a passage on its northern slope at 6.5% and on its southern slope at 6%. The climb from Fessy, much steeper, has an average gradient of 7.5% with a passage at 9% over 400 meters Source Wikipedia https://fr.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Col_de_Cou_(vall%C3%A9e_Verte)
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Among the most popular passes is Col de Cou, known for its challenging climb from Fessy. Another favorite is Jambaz Pass, a quiet alpine route offering beautiful views of the Rocher de la Motte. Visitors also appreciate Col du Feu for its panoramic views of the Chablais massif and Lake Geneva.
Yes, the region offers passes with varying difficulty. Col de Saxel is known for its relatively gentle climb and good pavement, making it a suitable option for those seeking a less strenuous ascent. The Jambaz Pass also features a moderate average gradient of 3.14%.
Many passes offer stunning natural vistas. For instance, Col du Feu provides magnificent views of the Chablais massif and Lake Geneva. Jambaz Pass offers beautiful views of the Rocher de la Motte. The passes often serve as gateways to the diverse terrain of the pre-Alps, connecting valleys and offering scenic landscapes.
The area around Fessy is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and running. For example, there are moderate hiking loops like the 'Encrenaz Pass – Mount Forchat loop from Col de Cou' and challenging cycling routes such as the 'Col de Cou – Port of Thonon-les-Bains loop'. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Fessy, Cycling around Fessy, and Running Trails around Fessy guides.
Yes, some passes offer amenities. For example, at Col du Feu, there is a bar-restaurant located just a short distance away, offering simple and hearty cuisine to help you refuel after your ascent.
The mountain passes in the Haute-Savoie region are generally best visited from late spring through early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and the roads are clear of snow. This period offers the most favorable conditions for cycling, hiking, and enjoying the scenic views.
The climb to Col de Cou from Fessy is considered challenging. It covers seven kilometers with an average gradient of 7.5%, including sections with a 9% gradient over 400 meters.
While the passes themselves can vary in difficulty, the surrounding region offers many family-friendly outdoor activities. You can find moderate hiking and running routes in the nearby guides, which might be suitable for families depending on their experience level. Always check the specific route details for suitability.
The Terramont Pass, located at an altitude of 1,094 meters, is known for being a rolling pass situated between the Hirmentaz mountain and the foothills of La Turche. It serves as a connection point between the Vallée Verte and the Vallée du Brevon.
Absolutely. The mountain passes around Fessy are popular among cyclists. You can find various cycling tours, including challenging loops like the 'Col du Feu – Col du Corbier (1230 m) loop from Perrignier' or the 'Recovery outing – Col de Cou loop from Perrignier'. More cycling routes are available in the Cycling around Fessy guide.
Col de Saxel is highly recommended by cyclists for its excellent asphalt, quiet roads, and consistent gradient. The climb is around 5% for most of its length, making it enjoyable without being overly strenuous, and the pavement was recently renewed in 2020.
Col du Feu reaches an elevation of 1,117 meters above sea level, offering impressive views from its summit.


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