Set off from Orsières to discover the Val Ferret, a gentle climb that is well worth exploring for the beauty of its scenery and the richness of its alpine flora.
The route starts at Orsières station and heads towards Somlaproz on the Route de Ferret, which you follow all the way through the Val Ferret. The climb is only slightly uphill, allowing you to pedal at a good pace through the meadows, admiring the many peaks that encircle the valley linking Switzerland and Italy. Mont Dolent and the Aiguille d’Argentière are among the most striking peaks in the area. As you climb towards the hamlet of Ferret, you will also pass through typical villages such as Praz-de-Fort and La Fouly. This unspoilt and relatively unknown valley is well worth discovering by bike, offering a reasonable climb in terms of difficulty and safe roads with little traffic.
Itinerary
Best period to go there
Prestations
Author\s note
The refreshment bar on the Ars mountain pasture is an ideal place to eat at the end of the climb before reaching Orsières
Directions
Park your car at the Orsières train station and turn left to cross the railroad. At the next village of Somlaproz, continue straight on towards La Fouly. You will go up the valley crossing or passing by many villages that have kept their charm of yesteryear such as Issert, Les Arlaches or Praz-de-Fort.
The ascent continues through the beautiful wooden chalets of Branche or Prayon to reach La Fouly, at the foot of the glacial cirque of A Neuve, Tour Noir and Dolent, border between France, Italy and Switzerland. You can stop in this pretty resort or continue for a few kilometers to reach the village of Ferret and finally the first alpine pastures, including that of Ars, the end of your journey.
Getting there
Leave the highway at Martigny.
Follow the direction Grand-Saint-Bernard then leave the main road at Orsières.
You can park at the station of Orsières on the free white spaces.
Take the train to Orsières
Consult the timetable on www.cff.ch