Mountain passes near Saint-Jean-De-Sixt, situated in the Aravis massif, provide diverse routes for cycling and hiking. This region is known for its challenging ascents and its historical connections to the Tour de France. The area offers access to several notable passes, featuring varied landscapes and viewpoints.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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Beautiful Col des Aravis, less frequented than the Col de la Colombière and the Col des Aravis.
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In the heart of the Aravis massif, the Col de la Croix Fry is located at an altitude of 1,477 meters. It is situated on a pretty plateau that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including Mont Blanc.
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col des Annes is about 7.5km (as the crow flies) further to the northeast this section is only the entrance to the pass at 1723 m
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This pass, relatively unknown, nevertheless culminates at an altitude of 1,721 meters in the Aravis. Located in the heart of mountain pastures, it is on the heights of Grand-Bornand and Reposoir. Several restaurants offer breathtaking views of the Aravis mountain range.
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View of the blue Annes slope, descending from the Col des Annes.
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The gravel section is easy to do with a racing bike
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It's a pleasant ride up to this col, at 1,715 metres (5,626 ft), on a meandering, quiet country road, but there are a few pitches over 10%. Enjoy a well earnt snack at either of the restaurants, both with great views of the surrounding countryside from their terraces.
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The Col de la Colombière is a pretty Alpine pass, connecting the Borne valley to the Avre valley. It was climbed more than 23 times by Tour de France riders between 1960 and 2021. It is an essential part of the sporting event.
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The most popular pass is Col des Aravis, which connects Haute-Savoie and Savoie and is highly favored by cyclists. Another well-loved spot is Col des Annes, known for its stunning views of the Aravis range and a restaurant at the summit. Col de la Croix Fry is also very popular, offering expansive views including Mont Blanc.
Yes, the region is renowned for cycling. You can find numerous routes, such as the challenging "Ascent of the Croix Fry pass" or the "Col des Aravis – Col des Aravis loop from Saint-Jean-de-Sixt." For more options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Jean-De-Sixt guide.
From passes like Col des Aravis, you can enjoy splendid views of the jagged Aravis mountain range and even Mont Blanc. Col de la Croix Fry offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including Mont Blanc, from its plateau. Col des Annes provides breathtaking panoramas of the Aravis range.
Yes, Col de la Croix Fry is often described as less busy compared to other major passes, offering a more peaceful and scenic alternative while still providing stunning vistas of the Aravis and Mont Blanc.
Col de la Colombière is a significant Alpine pass, standing at 1,613 meters. It has been featured in the Tour de France more than 23 times, making it an essential part of the sporting event. It offers a major challenge for cyclists and rewards them with grandiose panoramas.
Absolutely. The region around Saint-Jean-De-Sixt offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, trails around Tête du Danay provide 360-degree panoramas. You can find various options in the Running Trails around Saint-Jean-De-Sixt guide, which includes routes suitable for hiking.
Yes, some passes offer facilities. At Col des Annes, there's a refreshment bar at the top where you can taste local specialties. Col de la Colombière also has cafes at the summit, known for welcoming visitors with treats like blueberry pie.
When descending Col des Aravis towards Giettaz, cyclists should be careful as there is a tunnel with a bend. It is recommended to turn on your lights for safety.
Saint-Jean-De-Sixt is centrally located in the Aravis massif, making it an ideal base camp for accessing various outdoor activities, including cycling on the Route des Grandes Alpes and reaching legendary passes. The village itself is at 960 meters altitude.
Yes, passes like Col de la Colombière are known for their challenging ascents, especially the last mile. The Glières Pass is also noted for its steep climb, with a gravel section near the end, offering a rewarding view of the plateau.
Visitors appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views, the challenging ascents for cyclists, and the rich history, especially the passes' connections to the Tour de France. The combination of natural beauty and sporting heritage is a significant draw.


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