Col de la Forclaz in Martigny: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Col de la Forclaz is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.532m (5,026ft) above the sea level, located in the district of Martigny in the canton of Valais in Switzerland.

Can you drive through Col de la Forclaz?

Set high in the Swiss Alps, the road to the summit is totally paved. It’s called Route de la Forclaz. This is a great drive– short but very steep – leading to great views. The pass was originally a track used by mule teams and smugglers. Construction on the road begun in 1827 and was open to private vehicles in 1920.

How long is Col de la Forclaz?

Located at the northern tip of the Massif du Mont Blanc, the pass is 21.5 km (13.35 miles) long, running from the French border to Martigny-Combe in Switzerland. It’s a steep drive, hitting a 15.0% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps.

Is Col de la Forclaz in Switzerland open?

The summit hosts a hotel-restaurant, opened around 1830. Access to the pass is typically open all year round, but winter weather may cause restrictions (frequently requires snow chains and/or winter tires) and closures due to dangerous weather conditions. The pass has been climbed by the Tour de France bicycle race.