Mont Salève: A Hidden Gem in the Alps
Mont Salève, a towering mountain in the French Alps, is a hidden gem that deserves more attention in the world of cycling. While it may not be as fierce as the Angliru or Zoncolan, it is a climb that demands respect and should be raced more often. This article explores the unique features of Mont Salève, its history, and its potential as a cycling destination.
The Climb
Mont Salève is accessible via the D45 road, which climbs out of the village of Le Coin in the Haute-Savoie department of France. The climb is 4.7km long with an average gradient of 11.2%, but the real challenge lies in the three-kilometre ride mostly uphill before reaching the official climb. The road averages 5% gradient, but it's irregular with flat passages and 12% ramps, making it a constant winching effort.
One of the most striking features of Mont Salève is its sheer verticality. The road climbs up inside the woodland, with 12% ramps right away and hairpins that are even steeper. The changes in slope are never abrupt, and the road is punishing going up, but barriers along the road have extra panelling to stop cyclists sliding out beneath.
The final hairpin clears the woodland, and the slope still pins you back with double-digit gradients. Once at the top, there are some buildings at the crossroads, but the real payoff is the panorama of the Alps, including Mont Blanc. The views are worth the effort, and the climb is a gateway to new landscapes beyond.
History and Art
Mont Salève has a rich history, dating back to the 14th century. In 1444, Konrad Witz depicted biblical scenes in The Miraculous Draft of Fishes, with a backdrop that includes the Salève mountain. This painting is regularly cited by art historians as the first work to accurately depict recognisable landscapes.
The mountain has also inspired landscape artists, including Théodore Rousseau, whose image is featured at the top of this article. The cliffs of Mont Salève have long been a source of inspiration for artists, and their beauty is a testament to the mountain's enduring appeal.
The Tour de France
Mont Salève was first climbed by the Tour de France in 1973, and it was a crucial stage as Luis Ocaña won and took the yellow jersey. The stage finish was in Aspro-Gaillard, a place name that was altered for a sponsor, but it's a rare occurrence. The Tour de France has been trying to hunt out steep roads for a long time, and Mont Salève is a hidden gem that deserves more attention.
Conclusion
Mont Salève is a climb that demands respect and should be raced more often. It is a hidden gem in the Alps, with a rich history and a unique challenge that is worth the effort. The views are breathtaking, and the climb is a gateway to new landscapes beyond. If you're looking for a new cycling destination, Mont Salève is a must-visit.
