Verticale du Criou - The steepest vertical kilometre in the world - Samoëns

Samoëns (Haute-Savoie) | Date to be confirmed | 2.059 km | D+ 1000 m

Looking for a short but intense challenge? The Verticale du Criou is one of the steepest vertical kilometres in the world. A direct and relentless route through the heart of the Alps.

A unique challenge in Samoëns

From the Place du Gros Tilleul, the riders set off towards the summit of Le Criou. It's a dry climb with a positive vertical drop of 1,000 metres in just 2 kilometres. It's an explosive format, reserved for fans of pure effort. Poles permitted.

Time trial start

Start times are every 20 seconds. When registering, each participant indicates his or her estimated time for a coherent placement. Each participant tackles the mountain at his or her own pace, in a spirit of personal challenge.

An individual race, but not alone

All along the route, volunteers and spectators cheer on the riders. Despite its individual format, the climb is a great opportunity for sharing. Around 200 riders take part every year.

Races for children

Suitable formats are available for the very young to discover the spirit of mountain running.

Key points

• A very steep course: 1000 m of D+ over 2 km

• One of the shortest and most intense vertical kilometres in the world

• Departure from the centre of the village of Samoëns

• Race against the clock

• Alpine atmosphere, between surpassing oneself and solidarity