The definitive alpine switchback experience with views and location that will take the breath away. It's not for the faint hearted as it gets harder, steeper and exposed the further down you go. A real classic!

Statistics

0 - 1

hrs

1

m

1,087

m

19

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Severe

Description

What a ride! First you'll have to get to the trail which involves a beautifully ‘alpine’ traverse which will test your skills from the get go.

Drink in the views of the Grand Combin when you inevitably put a foot down or just before starting the descent proper.

It's one special place to be able to ride a bike! The first alpine section runs fast, with corners and unexpected roots.

It's easy to get carried away and take way too much speed.

After this, go over a gate and into the woods where dreams are made of! Keep left at a junction and maintain control as the trail begins to show why it is known as Vertigo.

You’ll get to the 'island in the sky'; take pictures, slap high fives or even hugs of joy and gather your emotions for section two. The upper wood section probably had you feeling like you were a hero; hard enough to challenge and focus but not too much technicality other than following your nose and braking in the right place.

Section 2 requires all your attention and focus.

The trail is a few degrees steeper and the corners put the ‘switch’ in switchback.

Slow tech and brake control are the order of the day.

Depending on the experience of the rider there maybe a significant amount of walking.

‘Alpine Switchback Exposure’ experience is recommended. Finish with a LONG straight into an emergency right hander with fading brakes and fading grip. Slap more high fives and chest bumps.