On this ride, we venture into the Haute Savoie before crossing the Aravis Range and descending through the Gorges de l'Arly.
We set off from Marlens. Starting at the foot of the Col de L’Epine, a short but punchy climb along a beautiful and quiet road leading into a satisfying descent. At the bottom, we turn right and start the 4.5km climb up the Col de Marais before descending down to Thones, nestled at an altitude of 627m. From here we’ll begin the steady 19km climb to the Col des Aravis, passing through St Jean de Sixt and the famous ski resort of La Clusaz. The Col tops out at a respectable 1487m. After taking a moment to enjoy the scenery, we then descend through La Giettaz to Flumet.
From Flumet, we follow a flowing descent through the Gorges de l’Arly, towards Ugine and Albertville, finishing off with a 30km roll back to Moutiers.
Ride stats
Distance: 107km
Ascent: 1648m
Key climb - Col des Aravis
Length of climb: 19km
Start altitude: 621m
Summit altitude: 1486m
Elevation gain: 869m
Average gradient: 4.6%
Max gradient: 8.3%