Mauvoisin Dam - Trophy of the Dams Velo in Martigny

The climb begins gently from Martigny to Sambrancher where you leave the Val d’Entremont and the Val Ferret on the right to enter into the Bagnes Valley. In Le Châble, you cross the river Dranse towards Versegères while the famous mountain resort of Verbier looms overhead. But the real climbing starts from Fionnay where several steep switchbacks quickly remind you that riding uphill can be difficult. The road becomes more and more remote as you bury into the Val de Bagnes. The view over the Combin peaks is impressive enough to forget the pain in your legs that you are starting to feel. In the last few kilometres, you will catch a glimpse, bit by bit, of the Mauvoisin Dam that stands tall like a rampart protecting the region.
The Val de Bagnes is famous thanks to the ski resort of Verbier. But cyclists too will find their local Holy Grail while climbing up the road leading to the majestic Mauvoisin Dam at the very end of the valley. Forming the lake Mauvoisin, this dam may not be the best-known of the Valais dams, but at an altitude of 1,961m, it does offer cyclists a fabulous ascent! As you ride through the kilometres, the valley becomes increasingly narrow and pristine, where you discover an unspoiled natural landscape with breathtaking views. The Mont Rogneux, the Rosablanche, and of course the Grand Combin reaching 4,314m, are just a few of the summits that will accompany you throughout your climb. A few kilometres before the dam, the road crosses the hamlet of Bonatchiesse with its traditional houses. Once you arrive at the dam, a break to see the lake Mauvoisin is obviously a requirement!
Arrive in Martigny by train from all Swiss towns and cities (SBB) or by the regional trains Railway Mont-Blanc & St-Bernard Express.
From the A9 motorway from Lausanne or Sierre, take the Martigny-Fully exit (number 21), or the cantonal road. Routes that are open all year round: the Forclaz pass, the Great Saint Bernard tunnel, the Simplon pass. Passes that are open only during summer: Great St Bernard, Nufenen, Grimsel, Furka
Follow the car-park routeing in Martigny.
We recommend: bike in excellent working order, helmet, gloves and bell, clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof), food and drink.
Strictly respect the Swiss traffic rules. Please note that you are running the tour at your own risk and all liability is refused. Please be considerate to plants and animals.
Strictly respect the Swiss traffic rules. Please note that you are running the tour at your own risk and all liability is refused. Please be considerate to plants and animals.