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Alain Rumpf (A Swiss With A Pulse) went cycling
July 13, 2025
Classic: La Croix, Mosses, Pillon
04:54
115km
23.4km/h
48.9km/h
2,400m
2,400m
La Croix, Mosses, Pillon: this is THE classic loop of the Alpes Vaudoises. Linking three of the region’s most iconic mountain passes, it offers a challenging and rewarding ride through dramatic landscapes, alpine villages, and two language regions.
Starting from Villars, which sits halfway up the Col de la Croix, you avoid the full 1,300 metres of climbing from the valley floor. From the village, it's around 500 vertical metres to the summit at 1,778 m. The ascent winds through pastures and forests, occasionally revealing sweeping views over the Rhône valley.
A fast 8 km descent leads to Les Diablerets, where the road begins to rise again toward the Col du Pillon (1,546 m). This climb is more gradual than Croix but equally scenic. At the summit, you cross the linguistic border into German-speaking Switzerland and descend into the chic resort of Gstaad, known for its wooden chalets and luxury atmosphere.
The route continues through the Saanenland and soon re-enters French-speaking Switzerland near Rougemont. At Château d’Oex, a left turn begins the climb to the Col des Mosses (1,445 m), featured in the 2016 and 2022 Tour de France. The ascent includes rolling sections that allow for recovery and passes through L’Etivaz, home to the famous cheese still produced in alpine huts using traditional methods.
From the pass, a long descent takes you to Aigle, headquarters of the Union Cycliste Internationale. Take time to stop at the World Cycling Center for a coffee and admire the striking velodrome, nestled among the region’s vineyards.
Once in the Rhône valley, the flat roads offer a welcome chance to spin the legs. But the day’s final challenge lies ahead: the climb back to Villars via Bex and Gryon. Though fatigue may set in, the road winds gently through vineyards and charming alpine villages, offering postcard views of the Dents du Midi and the Chablais.
This demanding loop features almost 2,500 metres of climbing and showcases the very best of the Alpes Vaudoises - both in landscape and cycling heritage. Expect a full day in the saddle, moments of effort and reward, and the satisfaction of completing one of western Switzerland’s finest road cycling loop.
Waypoints
Route Details
Elevation
Highest point (1,770 m)
Lowest point (380 m)
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