This picturesque Semnoz climb (1,699m) takes riders through the Haute-Savoie region of France, with stunning views of nearby Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains. The best time to visit for cycling is in the summer when the weather is at its best.
There are three ways to climb to Semnoz.
The most popular way is from Annecy, followed by Leschaux. Climbing from Quintal is the least-known and also the steepest.
- From Annecy (north)
- From Leschaux (southeast)
- From Quintal (north)
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, the Semnoz climb is worth adding to your list. With its challenging gradient and stunning views, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Starting point : Annecy
Annecy is a town in southeastern France that’s popular with cyclists. It’s a popular town for a cycling base as many climbs, such as the Col de la Colombière, Col de la Croix Fry, and Col des Aravis are in the area.
Annecy is located to the north of Semnoz. It’s a long climb from Annecy, 16km averaging 7.1%.
| Semnoz from Annecy | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 16.0km |
| Climb category | HC |
| Elevation gain | 1,144m |
| Minimum elevation | 444m |
| Maximum elevation | 1,586m |
| Average gradient | 7.1% |
| Maximum gradient | 12.3% |
| Strava segment | Semnoz from Annecy |
Starting point : Leschaux
Leschaux is a tiny French village 18km south of Annecy.
The climb to Semnoz from Leschaux is the easiest of all three, averaging 5.7% over 13.5km.
| Semnoz from Leschaux | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 13.5km |
| Climb category | 1 |
| Elevation gain | 953m |
| Minimum elevation | 899m |
| Maximum elevation | 1,665m |
| Average gradient | 5.7% |
| Maximum gradient | 22.1% |
| Strava segment | Semnoz from Leschaux |
Starting point : Quintal
Quintal is a tiny village 9km southwest of Annecy. There are no shops here, so it’s best to refuel yourself at Annecy before climbing up Semnoz from here.
The climb up to Semnoz from Quintal is the steepest, with an average gradient of 8.5% over 10.8km.
| Semnoz from Quintal | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 10.8km |
| Climb category | HC |
| Elevation gain | 923m |
| Minimum elevation | 733m |
| Maximum elevation | 1,656m |
| Average gradient | 8,5% |
| Maximum gradient | 14.0% |
| Strava segment | Semnoz from Quintal |
Semnoz in the Tour de France
Semnoz is a Hors Catégorie (HC) climb from Annecy. It featured in the Tour de France twice, in 1998 and 2013.
Nairo Quintana won the short but hilly penultimate Stage 20 of the 2013 Tour de France atop Semnoz.