A Steep Gem: Morcles and above to Rionda
By Will • Jul 8th, 2010 • Category: Climbs, Cycling, Favorites
An unbelievably steep, but absolutely stunning route:
A well known local climb on the Vaud/Valais border near Aigle. The first crazy stretch (just over 6 kms) to Morcles has 29 signed hairpins as it winds up the cliff side generally in the woods.
The road is well paved (and possible on road bike) for approximately 10 kilometres. But bring a hybrid or mountain bike because this astonishing route just keeps getting better and better as the road turns to gravel.
The gravel road is even steeper, but good quality and fine to cycle on. It just keeps going up, ultimately reaching 2156 metres at Rionda – and a small detour to 2200 metres and the Cabane de la Tourche (see map).
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Will is Happiest while cycling uphill. More enthusiastic than talented, his 2010 Challenge is to cycle a 100 Cols (mountain passes), survive La Marmotte again, and complete at least one century a month.
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Wow! That looks a fantastic route
And I see you decided to adopt the homeless underfed Marmotte chappie
Bazz, Do I hear a “I should never have left beautiful Switzerland and Alps expert Will” in your comment?