Top 5 Mountain Passes around Roanne

Cyclists frequently enjoy passes like Col de la Croix du Sud, known for its 12 km length and average 3% gradient. Another favorite is Col de la Rivière Noire, offering a 14.19 km ascent with an average gradient of 4.45%. The Col du Béal and Col de la Croix de l'Homme Mort are also highly regarded for their varied scenery and often low traffic.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the Col du Béal. On a clear day, you can see the Puy de Dôme, Monts Dore, Monts du Cantal to the west, and even Mont Blanc and the Alps to the east. Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) also offers magnificent views of the region from Mont Boussuivre. Additionally, the Château des Cornes d'Urfé, while not a pass, provides a stunning 360-degree panorama.

Yes, Col St Thomas (930 m) holds historical significance, marked by a sign from 1942 stating 'here France ends, here begins Auvergne.' The Château des Cornes d'Urfé, located on a rocky promontory, also has a rich history as a strategic observation post at the crossroads of three provinces.

The best time to visit for cycling and hiking is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is mild and roads are clear. The Col du Béal is particularly notable for its annual blueberry festival on August 15th, making late summer a vibrant time to visit. In winter, the Col du Béal is also suitable for snowkiting.

Absolutely. The Col du Béal offers a demanding 13.6 km ascent from Vertolaye with an average gradient of 6.6%. The Col de la Charmé also features very high percentages on its climb from Chabreloche. The Col de la Croix de l'Orme in the Beaujolais mountains includes a particularly steep section with a maximum gradient of 15.7%.

You'll encounter diverse natural beauty. Passes like the Col de la Croix de l'Orme wind through the 'green Beaujolais' region, characterized by forests of Douglas firs and open landscapes. The Col du Béal features lush chestnut woodlands, while Col de la Rivière Noire is noted for its forest features. Many passes offer superb views over plains and distant mountain ranges.

Yes, the Col de la Croix de l'Homme Mort is highly regarded by cyclists for its pleasant climbs and often very low road traffic, making it a good option for a more relaxed experience. Many routes in the region are appreciated for their generally low traffic, allowing for a peaceful outdoor experience.

Beyond cycling, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the 'Remarkable Hollow Tree – Waterfall and Remarkable Beech loop' near Saint-Alban-les-Eaux. For mountain biking, trails like 'Les Gouttes' or the 'Col de la Loge des Gardes – Plateau de la Verrerie loop' are available. You can explore more options in our guides for Easy hikes around Roanne and MTB Trails around Roanne.

The Col du Béal hosts an annual blueberry festival on August 15th, celebrating local produce and artisans. In winter, it's also a spot for snowkiting. The Col de la Croix de l'Orme is near Lac des Sapins, known for ecological swimming and water sports, adding to the recreational opportunities in its vicinity.

Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse routes for cyclists and hikers, the stunning panoramic views from various viewpoints, and the generally low traffic on many of the climbs. The combination of natural beauty, challenging ascents, and peaceful surroundings makes these passes a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, there is an inn present at the top of Col St Thomas (930 m), providing a convenient stop for visitors.