How to drive the road to Col de Bretaye in the Swiss Alps?
Col de Bretaye is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1,806m (5,925ft) above sea level, located in the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland. The road to the summit, known as Chemin de Bretaye, is a high-altitude climb that takes you through the heart of the Villars-sur-Ollon mountains, right past the Lac de Bretaye.
| Road facts: Col de Bretaye | |
|---|---|
| Location | Vaud, Switzerland |
| Elevation | 1,806 m (5,925 ft) |
| Length from Forclaz | 8.5 km (5.28 miles) |
| Average Gradient | 6.98% |
| Surface | Mixed (Paved and gravel) |
Where is the road to Col de Bretaye?
The climb starts from Forclaz and winds its way up through a mix of forest and open Alpine pastures. Technically, the 8.5 km route is the main access for the hotel and restaurants at the summit, but it’s far from a standard road. Logistically, you need to be aware that this is a shared road; you'll find plenty of hikers and mountain bikers along the way, especially near the lake. The path is narrow, and because it’s a popular spot for a day out, you have to be ready to slow down or pull over constantly to let people pass safely.
Is the road to Col de Bretaye paved?
The Chemin de Bretaye is a bit of a mix. While some parts have old asphalt, a good chunk of the higher section is unpaved gravel. As you can see when you're there, the gravel is quite fine and light-colored, but don't let that fool you; on the steeper ramps, your tires can easily lose grip if you’re not careful. An SUV or a 4x4 is the best choice here, not just for the traction, but to avoid hitting the undercarriage on the uneven parts where the pavement ends and the dirt begins.
How long is the drive to the summit of Col de Bretaye?
From Forclaz, it’s an 8.5 km journey with an average gradient of 6.98%. It’s a steady climb, but you gain nearly 600 meters in elevation, so your engine will be working hard. The most technical part is managing the narrow corners where the track hugs the grassy slopes. There aren't many places to turn around once you get high up, so you have to commit to the drive. Watch out for the sections where the gravel gets loose, especially if you’re heading down, as the weight of the car can make braking a bit tricky on the dust.
Is Col de Bretaye open in winter?
No, the road is usually closed to private vehicles during the winter months when the area turns into a ski resort. Even in late autumn or early spring, snow and ice can block the higher sections around the 1,800m mark. If it has rained recently, the gravel sections can get soft, and you risk getting the car bogged down in the mud near the lake. It's best to drive it in the summer when the ground is dry and firm, allowing you to focus on the narrow track without worrying about sliding off the edge.