Cycling passes around Lake Annecy
Cycling passes around Lake Annecy
Forclaz, Semnoz, Aravis… Annecy is a gateway to the finest Alpine passes. Here are the must-ride climbs, with their figures and the ideal bike to conquer them.
Right from the lake, you quickly swing into the mountains. Whether you aim for your first pass or a big col-bagging day, here are the flagship climbs — and the road bike or e-bike you need. To link them into a loop, see our full routes.
Col de la Forclaz
THE iconic lake pass. From Vesonne or Montmin you climb to the famous paragliding balcony, with a plunging view over Lake Annecy. Demanding but unforgettable.
Carbon road bike →Mont Semnoz
The queen climb, straight from Annecy. Twenty kilometres of steady forest climbing to the summit and its Alpine panorama. Already ridden by the Tour de France. An e-bike makes it accessible to all.
Try it on an e-bike →Col des Aravis
A legendary Alpine pass, reached via Thônes and La Clusaz. Postcard scenery between the Aravis range and the Mont Blanc massif on the horizon. A great full-day ride from Annecy.
Rent a road bike →Col de la Croix Fry
Above Manigod, a pass with alpine-pasture and chalet scenery, often on the Tour de France route. Shorter than the Aravis but punchy: a fine challenge to link into a loop.
Road bike →Col de Leschaux
South of the lake, a gentle pass, perfect for a first climb or an e-bike outing. It opens the door to the Bauges massif and its quiet roads.
Great on an e-bike →
📊 Passes comparison
| Pass | Altitude | Elevation + | Level | Recommended bike |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Col de Leschaux | 897 m | moderate | 🟢 Accessible | Road · E-bike |
| Col de la Forclaz | 1,150 m | +600 m | 🟠 Sporty | Road · E-bike |
| Col de la Croix Fry | 1,477 m | ~+400 m | 🔴 Hard | Road |
| Col des Aravis | 1,486 m | ~+600 m | 🔴 Hard | Road |
| Mont Semnoz | 1,660 m | +1,350 m | 🔴 Hard | Road · E-bike |
❓ Frequently asked questions
What is the most famous pass near Annecy?
The Col de la Forclaz: ~9 km, +600 m, with sections above 10%, and an iconic summit view over the lake.
Is the Semnoz hard by bike?
Yes: ~20 km at 7% for +1,350 m up to 1,660 m. Regularly on the Tour de France. Far more accessible on an e-bike.
Can you climb the passes on an e-bike?
Yes, a powerful e-bike puts the Forclaz, Semnoz or Aravis within everyone's reach, keeping the joy of the effort.
Ready to take on the passes?
Carbon road bikes and powerful e-bikes: we equip you in Annecy to climb light.
Book my bikeClimb data based on Annecy Mountains and field surveys — figures indicative.