Col des Posettes from Martigny — Gravel loop

This challenging gravel loop is designed for touring cyclists and typically takes around 6 hours to complete. This duration accounts for the significant elevation gain and technical sections.

The loop starts and ends in Martigny. For parking, you can look for public parking options within Martigny, particularly near the Old Town of Martigny, which serves as a convenient base for starting your ride.

No, this route is classified as difficult and is not suitable for beginners. It requires very good fitness due to nearly 2,400 meters of elevation gain and features diverse, demanding terrain with steep, bumpy sections, rocks, and roots. Advanced riding skills are necessary, and you may even need to push your bike on some challenging segments.

Expect a diverse and demanding terrain. The route features a mix of mostly paved surfaces and unpaved, rugged sections. The climb to Col des Posettes is often on service roads for ski lifts, described as bumpy and occasionally very steep. These unpaved roads can include rocks and roots, particularly on downhill sections, requiring advanced riding skills.

The scenery is a major draw. You'll be treated to increasingly beautiful vistas as you ascend, with panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif, including snow-covered peaks like Mont Blanc and Les Grandes Jorasses, the Aiguilles Rouges, the Chamonix valley, and the Glacier du Tour from Col des Posettes. Other notable points include the Trient Gorge and the Montets Pass.

Given the high alpine passes and technical terrain, the best time to ride this loop is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September) when the snow has melted and weather conditions are more stable. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.

While dogs are generally allowed on many trails in the region, specific regulations may apply, especially as parts of this route might pass through the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in sensitive natural areas, near livestock, or on technical sections where their safety or that of other riders could be compromised.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling this route. However, parts of the trail may traverse the Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve. While access is typically free, it's crucial to respect all nature reserve regulations, such as staying on marked paths, not disturbing wildlife, and packing out all trash. There are no specific cycling permits mentioned for this area.

Yes, there are a few options. You'll pass by Hôtel Restaurant Pizzeria Les Touristes Le Châtelard, which can be a good spot for a break or meal. The route also goes through Le Tour, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, where you might find additional amenities and places to resupply.

Yes, this route intersects with several official trails. Notable sections include parts of the Tour de la Vallée du Trient, Chemin des Diligences, Via Francigena - 03 part Switzerland, and the Tour Du Mont Blanc - Variante de Vallorcine. You'll also find smaller segments of trails like the Via Alpina Stage 79: Vernayaz - Trient and the Chamonix-Zermatt High-Level Walker's route.

For this difficult and long gravel loop, pack essentials like plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit for your bike (including spare tubes, pump, and tools), appropriate layers of clothing for varying mountain weather, a first-aid kit, and navigation tools. Given the technical terrain, consider protective gear and ensure your bike is in excellent condition.