Best mountain passes around Vauxrenard are found in the Beaujolais region of France, characterized by hills and valleys with altitudes ranging from 294 meters to 844 meters. The area offers numerous opportunities for exploring passes suitable for walking and cycling. These passes provide scenic views over the Saône plain and, on clear days, can offer glimpses of the Alps. The trails often wind through sloping vineyards and forests, highlighting the region's agricultural and natural features.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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Although the pass is located in France and is not extremely high, its name translates to "Siberia Pass". The name goes back to the often very cold, snow-rich winds and the harsh weather conditions in winter.
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The Col de Durbize is a mountain pass at 550 meters above sea level in the municipality of Chiroubles, in the heart of the Beaujolais wine region. The pass is located in the Massif Central and, as an important road junction (intersection of roads D26, D86, and D18E1), connects surrounding wine villages such as Villié-Morgon and Beaujeu. It is particularly popular with road cyclists and hikers for its panoramic views.
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The Col de Gerbet (612 m) is an idyllic mountain pass in the French wine-growing region of Beaujolais. Depending on the starting point, various roads with little traffic lead up to the pass via the D137. From Juliénas (south-east approach): This route is 7.3 kilometers long. It overcomes 342 meters of altitude with a steady, moderate gradient of 4.7% on average. The road winds through shady forest sections. From La Croix Blanche (west approach): A tougher variant 4.5 kilometers long. Here you conquer 270 meters of altitude with an average gradient of 6% and ramps of up to 11%.
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Magnificent view after a nice, not very technical descent
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Finally there is a sign, certainly not like we are used to seeing them. Towards the orientation table, there is a post with a green border at the top where the name of the pass is indicated. In the area, that seems to be how the passes are marked, like its neighbor the Col de Pierreclos for example.
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Several possible routes through the vineyards towards Villié-Morgon, notably via Chiroubles.
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The mountain passes in the Beaujolais region around Vauxrenard offer diverse scenic beauty. You can enjoy panoramic views over the Saône plain, and on clear days, even catch glimpses of the Alps, including Mont Blanc. For example, from Col de la Sibérie, 638 m, visitors often report seeing the Alps and Mont Blanc in good weather. Similarly, Col du Fût d'Avenas provides beautiful views of Mont Blanc and the Beaujolais plain.
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical context. The Col de la Sibérie, 638 m, for instance, holds historical significance with a memorial to the martyrs of the Resistance, making it a point of interest beyond its scenic views.
The passes around Vauxrenard are ideal for various outdoor activities, particularly hiking and cycling. Many trails wind through vineyards and forests. For hiking, you can explore routes like Montagne des Aiguillettes or the challenging Col de Durbize loop. If you're into running, there are trails such as the Col du Fût d'Avenas loop. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like the Col du Fût d'Avenas – Col de Durbize loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Vauxrenard, Running Trails around Vauxrenard, and MTB Trails around Vauxrenard guides.
Yes, the region offers family-friendly facilities. The Col de Crie Hiking and Trail Center is a great starting point for multiple hikes and provides many places for picnics and games for children, including a zip line. It also hosts the Col de la Crie festival every two years.
The Beaujolais region is beautiful throughout many seasons. The trails often wind through sloping vineyards and magnificent forests, which are particularly appealing in spring and autumn. Summer offers pleasant conditions for exploring, especially with the shade provided by the forests. Some passes, like Col de la Sibérie, 638 m, are noted for having a lot of forest, which is appreciated in summer.
The Col de Crie Hiking and Trail Center is a good place to find amenities. It operates from April to October and offers hiking advice, bike rental, a café, a shop, and a terrace. This center serves as a convenient hub for visitors exploring the surrounding passes.
Unlike the high-altitude passes of the Alps, Vauxrenard's passes are characterized by their integration into the Beaujolais region's vineyards and forests. They offer a unique blend of agricultural beauty, natural landscapes, and historical context. The terrain features hills and valleys, making them suitable for walking and cycling, and providing a peaceful escape with charming villages.
The passes around Vauxrenard cater to various fitness levels. While many paths are easy, some routes, like the Col de Durbize loop, are rated as difficult, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. Trails often wind through vineyards and forests, and some roads, like the Col de Crie, 622 m, can be quite busy with cars and trucks at peak times, so awareness of traffic is advisable.
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and the diverse landscapes. Many enjoy the quiet roads and the stunning views, such as the majestic dimension brought by the view of the rock of Solutré from Col de la Grange du Bois. The opportunity to explore charming villages and enjoy the natural environment away from bustling tourist hubs is also a highlight.
While the region is known for its peaceful, natural environment, specific public transport options directly to every pass might be limited. It's generally recommended to check local transport schedules or consider personal transport for greater flexibility in accessing the various trailheads and passes throughout the Beaujolais mountains.
Yes, several passes serve as excellent starting points. The Col de Crie, 622 m, for example, is a starting point for the ascent of Mont St Rigaud. Similarly, the Col du Fût d'Avenas is a well-known site for road cycling and the starting point for several secondary roads and trails perfect for mountain biking.


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