グリュイエールの峠・トップ18

Superb pass but be careful when leaving Sannen, the end of the climb is full of slopes at 15-16%

The Mittelberg is a mountain pass near the language border with western Switzerland. To the north, it descends to Abländschen at the foot of the magnificent Gastlosen mountain range, while to the south, the Grischbach Valley awaits. While the pass is paved, there are various trails for mountain bikers to choose from in various directions.

Bus stop 'Abländschen, Mittelberg'. The PostBus line was set up to facilitate travel for athletes during the summer period. It serves the Fenils Valley from Saanen, the Mittelberg Pass, Abländschen and Jaun from May 4 to October 27, 2024, including general holidays and bridge days. Check the bus timetable here: https://www.gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch/fr/mobilite/bus-alpin-jaun-saanen

Done this morning on the north slope, climb, by mountain bike. Everything goes very well until Gros Caudon, 1450m. Then you have to push (but the mountain bike can be towed alone!) over a 130m drop. The first half is bad, steep on a gullied path, then ends in grass. It's painful but done pretty quickly. The continuation over the Col de Jaman via Soladier and Les Verraux requires passing large, very muddy landslides. But easy.

The pass offers a beautiful view of the Vanil des Arts. Between the Col de Soladier and the Col de Jaman the path is easy via the Chemin Transversal. From Montreux the last part of the climb is very steep on the other hand.

The Col de Soladier is a picturesque pass in the Swiss Alps that offers breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding peaks.

Coming from Combi, you first cross a very rocky section that is not easy to walk on, where you have to find your own way. It does have red and white markings, but they don't make much sense. But you can get through it well if you're sure-footed, and it's fun. Afterwards you hike on a narrow path through the slope under the rock walls. Impressive, very cool, but here it is clearly an advantage to be sure-footed and not afraid of heights.

Tough end. Nice view on Vanil des Artses. Easy connection with Chemin Transversal to go back to Col de Jaman.