Cycling Loop: Short Tour of the Môle from Cluses

Direction: clockwise Distance: 55 km Difficulty: red Total elevation gain: 300 m Landmarks and Connections: From Cluses, take the greenway to Marignier, then Bonneville, Faucigny, Marcellaz, and St-Jeoire (junction with the Circuit de la Ramaz, No. 38). The Tour du Môle is a journey into the heart of Faucigny, a medieval province that long dreamed of expanding into Geneva and eventually became part of the House of Savoy in 1355. If it weren’t part of the limestone Pre-Alps, the Môle could be mistaken for a volcano. It has even often been nicknamed the “Fujiyama of the Alps.” Its conical shape, which majestically dominates the lower Arve Valley, makes it a landmark mountain. Surrounded by roads and nestled between the Chablais, the Salève, and the Aravis, the Môle is naturally suited for a cycling tour. Starting from Cluses, a pleasant greenway running along the Arve River and then the railroad tracks will take you to Marignier. After 2 km—ride with caution on the RD19—continue toward the hillsides of Ayse via the RD6. Pass through the center of Bonneville, and ride 2 km on Departmental Road 1205 before climbing to Faucigny via the Côte d’Hyot (RD12) and continuing on to Marcellaz. Between Marcellaz and La Tour, be sure to take a break by the shores of Lac du Môle, which is shaded and equipped with picnic benches. Then, leave the RD907 to enter St-Jeoire. You’ll be guided along a scenic scenic route (RD308) that will take you peacefully to Marignier. The return trip to Cluses follows the greenway.