Reaching an altitude of 947 meters, the Col de l'Epine is a small mountain pass nestled in the forest beneath the thorns. Located on the road between Thônes and Faverges, this pass is very popular with cyclists of all levels. This small pass, which connects Thônes and the Aravis mountain range to Annecy and its lake, is a route little known to the general public, yet so beloved by cyclists!
A forest pass
Passage between Thônes and Albertville
The Col de l'Epine is a small mountain pass at an altitude of 947 meters that connects the Thônes and Faverges valleys. From Thônes, the road winds through villages and alpine pastures in a wild, peaceful, and serene setting. This less-traveled route offers ample time to admire the scenery, with Mont Charvin and the Aiguilles du Mont on one side, and the Pointe de la Beccaz on the other. Once you reach the pass, you are in the forest. On the descent, the road overlooks the Chaise valley, with the Dent de Cons and the Pointe de la Sambuy in sight.
In cyclo mode
From Serraval
The Col de l'Épine has been crossed three times by the Tour de France , twice from Serraval and once from Marlens. From Thônes, you'll first need to cross the Col du Marais to reach Serraval and then head towards the Col de l'Épine, which presents no major difficulties from this side. 7,5 km long from Serraval, the average gradient is 2,6%, not exceeding 6%, with an elevation gain of 200 m: perfect for a spring warm-up! The greenway in the Faverges valley and the cycle paths around Lake Annecy offer pleasant ways to extend your rides.
From Marlens
However, from Marlens onwards, the difficulty of climbing this small pass is quite different. The road climbs steadily and consistently, averaging 7%. Signs guide you throughout the ascent, just like on the major mountain passes. Upon reaching the summit, you will have covered 7 km and gained 490 m of elevation from this side, rewarding yourself with a lovely view of the Sulens mountain and the first foothills of the Aravis range . A challenging climb, ideal for tackling steep gradients, but one that remains pleasant thanks to its verdant surroundings and light traffic.
Activities at the Col de l'Epine
A car park – the Pylône car park – is located on the right as you go back down towards Marlens. It is located right next to the free flight take-off area.
Hiking from the Col de l'Epine
The Iron Pass
A challenging loop (600m elevation gain) to the Col du Fer (1489m) takes you beneath the foothills of the Aiguilles du Mont Charvin. Upon reaching the pass, a magnificent view unfolds, with the Sulens mountain, the Tulle, and the Aiguille du Bouchet on one side , and the Dent de Cons and the various peaks of the Bauges range on the other . On the return, you'll follow part of the Tour du Val Sulens route to reach the small village of Ville de Rosset, just before the pass.
Flying from the Thorn Pass
A take-off area for single paragliders or cross-country flights is accessible at the Col de l'Epine with the car park located right next door.
