col des Essets

Overview

Col des Essets is a Category 1 climb in Switzerland, short in distance but severe in gradient. It runs 6.7 km from a start elevation of 1,127 m to a summit at 1,801 m, delivering a net elevation gain of 674 m. That places it firmly in high-mountain territory, and the numbers make clear this is not a climb you settle into gently — the effort is loaded almost from the first pedal stroke.

The gap between the net gain of 674 m and the total ascent of 766 m tells you the road does not climb in a clean line. Roughly 92 m of that ascent is repaid by descents or dips along the way, meaning you give back altitude only to reclaim it. In practice that undulation raises the cost of the climb: every metre lost has to be re-earned on gradients that are already punishing, so your legs do more work than the net figure alone suggests.

How the Gradient Unfolds

An average of 10.06% is already steep, but averages flatten the story. With a maximum gradient of 24.77%, this climb hides ramps roughly two and a half times steeper than its average — and those spikes are what break a rhythm.

• Brief flatter or recovery sections where the road dips, tied to the 92 m of ascent lost and regained
• Repeated short climbs stacked back-to-back rather than one steady grade
• A steepest ramp near 24.77% that will force you out of the saddle or down to your lowest gear

Pacing Notes

On a climb this undulating, even-effort beats even-speed. Chasing a constant speed forces you to surge on the steepest ramps and coast where it flattens, spiking your sustainable power output and draining you before the summit. Instead, hold a steady effort and let your speed drop on the walls and rise on the dips. Know your ceiling before you start — use the FTP estimator to set a target you can hold across all 6.7 km, then protect it on the 24.77% pitches where the temptation to muscle through is strongest.

Gearing

Gearing is dictated by the steepest ramp, not the average. At 24.77%, a standard road setup will leave you grinding or walking. Run a compact (50/34) or sub-compact chainset paired with a wide-range cassette — a 34×32 or 34×34 gives you the low end to spin the worst pitches instead of forcing them. Check your setup before the ride: confirm your rear derailleur can handle the largest sprocket and that the chain is long enough. Sorting this in the workshop is far easier than discovering a missing gear halfway up a 24% wall.

Summary

• Length: 6.7 km
• Average gradient: 10.06%
• Maximum gradient: 24.77%
• Net elevation gain: 674 m
• Total ascent: 766 m
• Category: 1

Col des Essets is a short climb that rides long. The steep average, the near-25% ramp, and the 92 m of clawed-back ascent make it a Category 1 effort that rewards conservative pacing and generous gearing. Set your effort, respect the walls, and let the summit come to you.