Cols in the Chablais: Ramaz and Encrenaz

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This tour combines the ascent of two passes, the Col de la Ramaz and the Col de l'Encrenaz. In total, 1640 metres of elevation are covered. For lovers of scenic beauty, there is plenty to enjoy, including views of the mighty Mont Blanc massif. The majority of the route runs along quiet roads.

Of the 1640 meters of elevation, a large part (990 meters of elevation) is conquered in the ascent of the Ramaz and only 280 meters of elevation in the ascent of the Encrenaz , partly because only the second half of the latter is cycled. This shortened climb to the Encrenaz is also much easier (203 climb effort points (cep)) than the climb to the Ramaz (778 cep). More information about the Ramaz can be found here and about the Encrenaz here.

In my opinion, the climb to the Col de la Ramaz and the first part of the descent from this pass are the most beautiful parts of the ride. Here the road is wonderfully quiet and views of Mont Blanc are sublime, especially in that first part of the descent.

The ride could also be cycled in the opposite direction, but I recommend the direction suggested here because in that case both cols are climbed from the most beautiful side and not descended, so you have more time to enjoy the landscape. Also, on the busy road connecting Morzine to Taninges (D902), there are more descending than climbing meters, so you are less bothered by traffic.