If one word could be used to describe the Semnoz, it would surely be an understatement. It's true that it doesn't even qualify as a mountain pass, which would lend it a certain allure, and its 1660m summit doesn't inspire the same sense of wonder as the 2642m summit of the Galibier. But the reason lies elsewhere as well: famous mountain passes in the Alps and other mountain ranges often have a symbolic connection with the Tour de France. However, the Semnoz has only hosted a Tour de France stage finish once, in 2013.

That said, any cyclist who has ever climbed the Semnoz will tell you that it was not an easy climb.

This mountain near Annecy holds many surprises; it's a must-see for us, and one we wanted to highlight. Few people know this, but you can reach the summit from three different sides.

Looking for a challenge? Climb all 3 sides in the same outing!

The Semnoz via Annecy

The most classic and "accessible" climb. By accessible, I mean that you won't even have time to leave Annecy before you're already on the first slopes of the pass. From there, it's just under 18km to the summit.

With an average gradient of 7% and a maximum of 10%, nothing seems insurmountable on paper.

The first few kilometers average between 7 and 8%, enough to warm up and test the limits of your gears. This section is pleasant; you're shaded by the forest and the road winds its way along, really setting the mood. After 5km of climbing, you'll reach the Puisots area and a welcome flat section (unless you're aiming for a sub-in-an-hour climb). Expect another 3km of easier roads before reaching the final stretch of the climb.

You quickly understand this when you see the 9km sign and the long straight stretch ahead. From that point on, the gradient never drops below 8% until the summit, often remaining between 9 and 10%. A steady climb, certainly, but without much rest, even though the first few kilometers are still in the legs.

Less than 3km from the summit, you emerge from the forest and can glimpse the top of the chairlift in the distance; it's also pleasant to find yourself in a bit more sunshine. The hardest part is the last kilometer, because you thought you'd arrived long ago, and in addition to being steep, it's also uneven. But take the opportunity to turn around and look around. You'll soon be able to enjoy the view of the lake, the Tournette, and Mont Blanc!

Take the quick photo at the top, and you're ready to head back down the same way. A quick round trip that lets you cover 1200m of elevation gain in 40km, just a stone's throw from Annecy, and with memories to last a lifetime.

The Semnoz by Quintal

An option that follows part of the traditional route, but in a "shorter" way. This side is the toughest, for climbers who love double-digit gradients!

The climb is just over 11km, but don't forget the 8km between Annecy and Quintal, which are far from easy. Once you reach Quintal, you cross the village and turn left. That's when you'll see the first official sign for the climb. Up to the junction with the main road, you'll have to tackle 3.5km at an average gradient of 10%. The bends reach gradients of 13-14%, it's brutal.

You reach a short flat section just before the junction with the main road. This is welcome, because afterwards it's back to 7.5km where the gradient never dips below 8%. An average of 9% all the way to the summit.Less than 3km from the summit, you finally emerge from the forest and can begin to enjoy the various views that are available to you.

Once at the top, take some time to admire the view of Mont Blanc and the Bauges mountain range. For the return trip, we suggest taking the most direct route back towards Annecy. It's an 18km descent that brings you straight to the city center.

The Semnoz via Leschaux

Saving the best for last? As locals, we've had the chance to test all three sides often enough to naturally have a slight preference. But why this one?

In a more peaceful, less strenuous, and wilder setting, this is a slightly more "forgotten" side, but one that we find very charming. This map also allows you to complete a loop, which is always more enjoyable than an out-and-back (at least for the Strava track).

Climbing Semnoz from Leschaux means first having to tackle the Col de Leschaux. THE climb for a warm-up. Perfectly consistent, 10km at an average of 4%. Of course, if you combine the two consecutive climbs, it's almost 24km of ascent, but with manageable gradients.

Once at the top of the Leschaux pass, the start of the Semnoz awaits you, you turn right, the first sign is there: “Ascent of Semnoz - 13.5kms”.

The climb unfolds in stages, beginning with a steady, straight ascent at around 7%, offering stunning views of the Bauges mountains. Then you enter the forest where the gradients become much gentler, but still conserve energy. The forest stretch can feel long, as the road climbs again with some steep sections around 10%, before emerging 2km from the finish. If the weather is good, you'll be able to enjoy views of the Tournette and Mont Blanc to the right.
The final stretch is actually quite flat! Enjoy it.

All that remains is to descend to Annecy, 18km of pleasure to relive your beautiful climb!