Col de la Joux Verte

The Col de Joux Verte is a classic alpine climb, starting right from the heart of Morzine. The route begins near the Mairie’s office by the bridge over the Dranse River, quickly navigating a couple of roundabouts before launching into a 14km ascent packed with hairpin bends.

Climb overview:

The first half of the climb is a classic alpine experience with tight switchbacks, ski chalets perched above the road, and the Super Morzine ski lift passing overhead, loaded with mountain bikers and walkers. As the chalets give way to open meadows, the sound of cowbells from grazing livestock becomes a constant companion. Around the halfway mark, near the small hamlet of Zore, the road straightens slightly, running along the cliffs above the village of Prodains at the head of the Vallée des Ardoisières.

Avoriaz comes into view ahead, but the final stretch remains challenging, especially for those who may have pushed a little too hard earlier in the climb.

Records and timing:

• Cycling legend Bernard Hinault holds the record for the fastest ascent: 33 minutes during the 1979 Tour de France.
• The annual Joux Verte race typically sees elite amateur riders finish in just under 40 minutes.
• Strong club riders can expect times of around 50 minutes, while a more comfortable pace takes about an hour.
• Less experienced or casual riders might complete the climb in 60–75 minutes.

For those who like a challenge, the Morzine Tourist Office provides official time-stamping cards. Riders can stamp their card at the start (at the small blue box by the painted start line) and again at the finish near the Avoriaz tourist office, earning themselves a certificate to mark their achievement.

The descent:

The ride back down is thrilling, with fast straights in the upper section before hitting the tighter, more technical hairpin bends from the halfway point. Many of these corners are bordered by low concrete walls, acting as barriers between the upper and lower sections of the road. Though speeds can be high particularly in the top half of the descent, most riders will take the hairpins at no more than 20 mph, making for a controlled and exhilarating ride.

An alternative descent avoids the main road back to Morzine. After about 1km, take a right turn towards Les Lindarets, known as the ‘goat village’ due to the free-roaming goats that attract plenty of tourists. The road then continues past the stunning Lac de Montriond before rejoining the main road back to Morzine. This route offers a fantastic mix of tight hairpins, sweeping fast corners, and steep straight sections. Some corners are blind, and unlike the Tour de France, oncoming traffic is a real consideration, so caution is advised.

Alternative route:

For those looking for an even tougher challenge, tackling the climb in reverse—via Les Lindarets—is significantly harder, with steeper gradients throughout.

Key stats:

Distance: 32km

Time: 1–2 hours

Vertical gain: 860m

Highest point: Avoriaz (1,800m)

A rewarding climb with fantastic views, the Col de Joux Verte is a must-ride for cyclists in the Morzine area.