Best mountain passes around Magland offer access to the French Alps, characterized by their mountainous terrain and valleys. The region is situated in Haute-Savoie, providing a gateway to various alpine landscapes. It features a mix of challenging ascents and scenic routes through natural environments. This area is known for its elevation changes and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Last updated: August 19, 2026
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The Col du rasoir from La Colombiere is extremely exposed: a climb through scree where the path is no longer marked. The slope is very steep and ultra slippery. A fall can be fatal if a stop is not made within a meter of the fall. The view is worth it, but taking into account the access difficulties.
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As of June 25, crossing from both sides is not possible due to construction work. It doesn't look like this will change anytime soon.
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col des Annes is about 7.5km (as the crow flies) further to the northeast this section is only the entrance to the pass at 1723 m
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Contrary to the previous comment, I don't think that the Col du Rasoir is made for experienced "mountaineers"... I do however believe that certain passages are perhaps the most exposed of the hike up to Jallouvre! The crest, very tapered, sometimes does not allow for error. However, this path is very busy and the path is well marked. The ascent and descent pose no more problem than that in dry weather.
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A majestic summit resembling a pyramid from the Cenise side, the Jallouvre - or Jalouvre - is a mythical summit whose ascent, although not difficult compared to its neighbor Pointe Blanche overhanging it by 30m, remains in the memory like that of a almost epic adventure between grueling scree (on both sides), the mythical Col du Razoir (the aptly named) and the Passage de la Cravate which, in the end, poses no more problem than that when the residual snowfields have disappeared, unless that we are subject to vertigo. In summary, one of the most beautiful hikes in the area in my opinion, for which you still need to be sure-footed and in good shape, but which can be tamed quite easily. Do not miss !
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I recommend the climb via "Nancy sur Cluses", a good winding climb with gradients of 13-14%, I saw a few French cycling clubs pass me and take this route :-) With luggage on the racing bike it's a real challenge (for the Route des Grandes Alpes - an insane test start).
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This pass, relatively unknown, nevertheless culminates at an altitude of 1,721 meters in the Aravis. Located in the heart of mountain pastures, it is on the heights of Grand-Bornand and Reposoir. Several restaurants offer breathtaking views of the Aravis mountain range.
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View of the blue Annes slope, descending from the Col des Annes.
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Yes, for a moderately challenging but rewarding experience, consider Col d'Anterne. While not explicitly labeled 'easy', it's an intermediate pass offering beautiful alpine scenery and a natural monument viewpoint, making it accessible for those with some hiking experience. For families looking for facilities, Col des Annes offers refreshment bars and restaurants at the summit.
The mountain passes around Magland offer spectacular panoramic views of the French Alps. For instance, Col des Annes provides breathtaking vistas of the Aravis range from its 1,722-meter altitude. Col d'Anterne is also known for its viewpoint and alpine scenery. Many passes, including Col de la Colombière and Route du Col de Romme, feature stunning natural landscapes with cliffs and high mountain backdrops.
Absolutely. For a significant challenge, Pic de Jallouvre is a majestic summit with a pyramid-like appearance, involving grueling scree sections, the mythical Col du Razoir, and the Passage de la Cravate. It requires sure-footedness and good physical condition. Col de la Colombière is another challenging Alpine pass, famous from the Tour de France, with its last mile being particularly demanding. Route du Col de Romme also features steep sections and large cliffs, offering a challenging experience, especially for road cyclists.
The region around Magland's mountain passes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including challenging loops like the Col de Saxel – Jambaz Pass. For running, there are trails such as the Les Carroz – Pierre à Laya loop. General cycling tours, including the Pierre Carrée Pass loop, are also popular. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Road Cycling Routes around Magland, Running Trails around Magland, and Cycling around Magland.
Yes, some mountain passes offer facilities. At the summit of Col des Annes, you'll find refreshment bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local specialties and cold drinks with views of the Aravis range. Col de la Colombière also has cafes at the top, perfect for a well-earned snack after the climb.
The best time to visit the mountain passes around Magland is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the passes are clear of snow, making them ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the panoramic views. Some higher passes might still have snow earlier in spring or later in autumn. Winter offers opportunities for snow-related activities, but access to certain passes may be restricted.
Yes, Col de la Colombière holds significant historical importance, particularly in the world of cycling. It's a legendary pass that has been climbed more than 23 times by Tour de France riders between 1960 and 2021, making it an essential part of this renowned sporting event.
Many mountain passes in the region, including Col des Annes, are known to have parking available, making them accessible for visitors arriving by car. It's always advisable to check specific highlight details or local information for parking availability at your chosen starting point.
The mountain passes around Magland are unique for their combination of challenging ascents, stunning panoramic viewpoints, and rich natural features. They offer a gateway to the French Alps, characterized by dramatic elevation changes, alpine scenery, and natural monuments like Col d'Anterne. Some passes also boast historical significance, such as Col de la Colombière's legacy in the Tour de France.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views and the rewarding experience after a climb. For example, the 1,722-meter altitude of Col des Annes offers a 'rather breathtaking view of the Aravis range,' often enjoyed with local specialties at the summit. The 'wonderful climb' and the 'legendary' status of passes like Col de la Colombière are also highly appreciated, along with the challenging yet memorable ascents of peaks like Pic de Jallouvre.
Yes, the region is very popular with road cyclists. Route du Col de Romme is noted for connecting the town of Cluses to the high mountains, providing excellent options for road bike routes with steep sections and large cliffs. Col de la Colombière is also a legendary pass in the world of cycling, having been featured multiple times in the Tour de France.


See even more epic mountain passes by checking out these guides around Magland: