Top 20 Mountain Passes in Rhône
Best mountain passes in Rhône are located within the scenic Monts du Lyonnais and Beaujolais areas of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. These areas feature diverse landscapes, including rolling vineyards, green valleys, and wooded hills. The region offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking, with many passes providing panoramic views. Historical sites, picturesque villages, and archaeological sites are also present in the Monts du Lyonnais.
Best mountain passes in Rhône
- The most popular mountain passes is Col de la Luère, a mountain_pass located at 715 meters above sea level. This pass separates the Brévenne and Yzeron valleys and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Lyon and the Alps.
- Another must-see spot is Malval Pass (732 m), a mountain_pass in the Monts du Lyonnais. Visitors can enjoy hikes through wooded hills, with clearings providing views of Lyon and the distant Alps.
- Visitors also love Col de Saint-Bonnet, a mountain_pass culminating at 646 meters in the Beaujolais region. It offers panoramas over the Beaujolais vineyards and green valleys, making it a favorite for hikers and cyclists.
- Rhône is known for mountain passes that offer panoramic views, tranquil forest paths, and challenging cycling routes. The variety of terrain provides options for different outdoor activities and skill levels.
- The mountain passes in Rhône are appreciated by the komoot community. More than 550 upvotes and 10 photos highlight the appeal of these routes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Col de la Luère
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Old Col de la Croix du Ban
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Col de la Croix du Ban
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Col de Saint-Bonnet
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Col de Gerbet
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Le relais du Parasoir
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Cambuse Pass
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Col de la Sibérie, 638 m
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Croix d'Ajoux
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Col de Durbize
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Popular around Rhône
The Voie Bleue – Moselle-Saône by bike
Rhone Cycle Route — From the southern Jura to Lyon
Via Rhôna — cycling the Rhone Valley Way from Lyon to the Mediterranean
The Rhône by bike – sporty escapes around Lyon
Les Vélœno71 – discover the grape varieties of Saône-et-Loire
Vineyards and mountains – 15 walks in the Beaujolais region
Running near Lyon –10 trail outings less than an hour from the city
Flowers of the mountains — Coteaux du Lyonnais tour
Touring Lyon via the forts (GR 169)
Between hills and forests – Beaujolais Vert MTB Tour
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Tips from the Community
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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The descent is really cool on the Chevinay side
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The Col de la Croix du Ban, in the Monts du Lyonnais, can be approached either from Saint-Pierre-la-Palud or from Poulionnay. In the first case, it is a six-kilometre climb, in the second it is only three. In both cases, the average gradient is 6%.
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Magnificent view after a nice, not very technical descent
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which mountain passes in Rhône offer the most scenic views?
For breathtaking panoramas, consider Col de la Luère, which provides spectacular views of Lyon and the Alps. Another excellent choice is Col de Saint-Bonnet in the Beaujolais region, offering stunning vistas over vineyards and green valleys. From the nearby Signal de Saint-Bonnet, you can even see Mont Blanc on clear days.
Are there good hiking opportunities near the mountain passes in Rhône?
Yes, the Rhône department offers numerous hiking trails around its mountain passes. For example, near Malval Pass (732 m), you'll find tranquil forest paths with occasional clearings that provide views of Lyon and the distant Alps. The Monts du Lyonnais, where many passes are located, boast hundreds of kilometers of marked trails. You can find more options in the Hiking in Rhône guide.
Can I cycle on the mountain passes in Rhône?
Absolutely. Cycling is a popular activity on the Rhône mountain passes. The Col de la Luère is well-known among cyclists, with various accessible routes, some of which can be quite steep. The ascent to Col de Malval from Courzieu is also a challenging option, spanning 5.3 km with an average gradient of 6.3%.
Are there family-friendly mountain passes in Rhône?
Yes, several passes are suitable for families. Malval Pass (732 m) is considered family-friendly, offering pleasant hikes through wooded hills. The area around Col de la Croix des Fourches is also great for families, especially due to its proximity to Lac des Sapins, where you can enjoy various lakeside activities like swimming and tree climbing.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the mountain passes in Rhône?
The mountain passes in Rhône are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter rolling vineyards, lush green valleys, and extensive wooded hills, particularly in the Monts du Lyonnais and Beaujolais areas. Many passes offer panoramic views that stretch across the Rhône Valley, Lyon, and even to the distant Alps.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the mountain passes in Rhône?
Yes, the region is rich in heritage. Near Col de Saint-Bonnet, you can visit the Signal de Saint-Bonnet, which features a renovated 12th-century Romanesque chapel. The Monts du Lyonnais area, where many passes are located, also features picturesque villages, medieval castles, and archaeological sites.
Where can I find places to eat or rest near the mountain passes?
You can find amenities like restaurants and cafes near some passes. For instance, Le relais du Parasoir is perched at the top of a hill near the Col de Saint-Bonnet area, offering a restaurant with a breathtaking view of the Beaujolais vineyards and the Saône valley.
What are some easy hiking routes near the mountain passes in Rhône?
For easier hikes, consider routes like the 'Tour of Lac des Sapins' or the 'Mont Monnet Loop', both rated as easy. These are great options for a relaxed outdoor experience. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes in Rhône guide.
What are some challenging cycling or MTB routes in the Rhône mountain pass region?
For a challenging mountain biking experience, consider the 'Col de la Croix du Ban – Malval Pass loop from Pollionnay', which is rated as difficult. The region offers various challenging ascents for road cyclists as well, such as certain sections from Rivolet to Col de Saint-Bonnet. Explore more options in the MTB Trails in Rhône guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the mountain passes in Rhône?
Visitors frequently praise the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to 'recharge one's batteries' amidst nature. The combination of physical challenge on cycling routes, tranquil forest walks, and the expansive panoramic views, especially of Lyon and the Alps, are highly appreciated. The variety of terrain caters to different outdoor activities and skill levels, making them appealing to a broad audience.
Are there any unique or lesser-known mountain passes worth exploring in Rhône?
While not as widely known as some others, Old Col de la Croix du Ban offers a blend of natural beauty and historical interest, featuring forest paths and viewpoints. It's a great option for those looking to explore a less crowded, atmospheric route.
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