Reaching an altitude of 843 m, the Col du Marais connects Serraval to Les Clefs , halfway between Thônes and Faverges-Annecy. This road, winding through chalets and alpine pastures, leads you to tranquil and wild landscapes.
A bucolic pass
Between Thônes and Serraval
The Col du Marais pass is located at an altitude of 843 meters on the road connecting Thônes to Serraval. Situated on the eastern slope of the Tournette mountain , it owes its name not to any marsh but rather to the small village located nearby. From Thônes, the road initially follows the Fier river before climbing through pastures to reach the pass, which offers lovely views of the Tournette and also the Dent de Cons peak.
In cyclo mode
Starting from Thônes, the Col du Marais is a fairly easy and rolling climb , ideal for warming up or getting a taste of mountain ascents. The gradient is gentle, averaging 3,5% and never exceeding 7% during a 400m section before Le Cropt. A very pleasant climb through a bucolic setting, you will have covered 8km and gained 268m of elevation by the time you reach the summit.
To extend the route, you can go back down to Saint-Ferréol, bypass Faverges to reach Lake Annecy via the cycle path and continue with other passes depending on the chosen route.
Hiking at the Col du Marais
From the Marais pass to Sulens
The hikes from the Col du Marais pass mainly head towards the Sulens mountain or the Col de la Botte pass , which you can explore in both summer and winter, on foot, by mountain bike, snowshoe, or touring skis. A large parking area has recently been created at the pass.
However, we would like to remind you that winter hiking always presents risks and that it is more prudent to go out accompanied by a professional.
From the Marais pass to the Tournette
On the eastern slope of the Tournette , a path from Les Pruniers connects to the GR de Pays long-distance hiking trail, allowing you to hike around the Aiguille via Les Praz Dzeures or join the various routes that climb to the Tournette. These paths traverse steep terrain. It is strongly advised against using them in winter.
In the forested areas on either side of the pass, you can go mushroom picking.
