Description - Around the Ormonts valley with the gravel bike
From Leysin to Aigle, breathtaking views of the peaks of the Vaud Alps
Take the TPC train to Leysin: it's much more pleasant than the road, where traffic is often heavy.
The first few kilometres take you through the mountain pastures towards the Pierre du Moëllé. Don't go all the way to the summit, however, and turn right down a gravel road towards La Comballaz.
After crossing the Col des Mosses, continue upwards to pass under the Pic Chaussy and then continue in the direction of Isenau. Shortly afterwards, you reach the magical setting of Lac Retaud before descending to the Col du Pillon and then Les Diablerets.
A final effort to climb back up to the charming village of La Forclaz and then it's down to Aigle on an easy 4x4 road. Before reaching Aigle station, you pass the magnificent castle that dominates the town amidst the vineyards.
- If you're feeling adventurous and don't mind a bit of walking: at km 4, turn left and follow the signposted mountain bike route. A pretty single will take you on a short cut to km 8, saving you around a hundred metres of D+.
- Shortly after the halfway point, Lac Retaud is the ideal spot for a bucolic break by the water or on the terrace of the restaurant.
- When you leave the route de la Forclaz at km 48, the descent is steep and often wet. Be careful, as the tarmac can be slippery.
