Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Col de la Croix du Ban
Road cycling
4.9
(155)
Col de la Croix du Ban is a well-known mountain pass nestled in the scenic Monts du Lyonnais, a sub-range of France's Massif Central. Situated at an elevation of 604 meters (1,982 feet), this pass serves as a natural boundary, historically marking feudal territories and geographically separating the valleys of the Yzeron and Brévenne rivers. It's a significant landmark on the departmental road D610, bordering the communes of Pollionnay and Saint-Pierre-la-Palud.
What draws many visitors to Col de la Croix du Ban is its dual appeal as both a challenging cycling destination and a gateway to diverse outdoor activities. Cyclists particularly appreciate the ascents from both Pollionnay and Saint-Pierre-la-Palud, which offer rewarding climbs. The pass is also a popular crossing point for those exploring the wider Monts du Lyonnais region, known for its natural beauty and accessible terrain.
For those planning a visit, it's helpful to know the terrain. While generally accessible by road, some descents can feature irregular road surfaces, so caution is advised, especially for cyclists. The area is well-suited for various activities, including hiking along sections of the Tour des monts du Lyonnais. Additionally, about 400 meters east of the pass, a small climbing site offers bouldering and short routes in a pleasant, wooded setting, ideal for summer climbing.
The best time of year to visit Col de la Croix du Ban largely depends on your preferred activity. The climbing site is particularly enjoyable during warmer months, while the pass itself is accessible year-round for hiking and cycling. Beyond the pass, the Monts du Lyonnais offer cultural exploration, with nearby attractions like the chapel of Larny and the Antoine Brun Museum in Sainte-Consorce, alongside panoramic viewpoints offering expansive vistas of Lyon.
Visitors often describe the final stretch to the pass as a "hard finish" through undergrowth, adding a sense of achievement to the journey. Despite the occasional challenging terrain, the pass is widely recognized in the region as a compulsory crossing point, underscoring its importance and popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. These insights highlight the varied experiences one can expect when exploring this notable location.
Whether you're seeking a challenging cycling route, a scenic hike, or a unique climbing spot, Col de la Croix du Ban offers a range of options. You can discover numerous trails and plan your adventure through the Monts du Lyonnais, finding routes suitable for various skill levels. Explore the diverse terrain and natural features of this French mountain pass to make the most of your visit.
Tips
May 26, 2020
Road cycling
•
June 5, 2020
Road cycling
•
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Col de la Croix du Ban
4.4
(67)
698
riders
52.3km
02:49
1,030m
1,030m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.6
(28)
483
riders
77.3km
03:55
1,200m
1,200m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.4
(14)
296
riders
42.3km
02:19
830m
830m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.97 km
Uphill 110 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 9 June
19°C
9°C
32 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical difficulty for cycling the Col de la Croix du Ban?
The Col de la Croix du Ban offers challenging ascents from both Pollionnay and Saint-Pierre-la-Palud. From Saint-Pierre-la-Palud, the climb is 3.1 km with an average gradient of 6.8%. From Pollionnay, it's approximately 1.8 miles with a vertical gain of 630 feet. Cyclists should also be aware that some descents can feature irregular road surfaces, requiring caution.
Are there any specific viewpoints or notable natural features near the pass?
Beyond the pass itself, the Monts du Lyonnais region offers panoramic views, including a landscape reading table in a nearby village that provides expansive vistas of Lyon. Historically, the pass marked a significant feudal boundary, separating the valleys of the Yzeron and Brévenne rivers, which adds to its natural and historical significance.
What are the parking options and public transport accessibility for Col de la Croix du Ban?
While the pass is generally accessible by road, specific parking information is not detailed in the available data. It is a well-known crossing point, suggesting road access is straightforward. Public transport options directly to the pass are limited; visitors typically arrive by car or bicycle.
Is Col de la Croix du Ban suitable for winter hiking or cycling?
The pass is accessible year-round for hiking and cycling. However, conditions in winter can vary. While the main road (D610) is generally maintained, specific winter hiking conditions or potential road closures due to snow are not detailed. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts and road conditions before planning a winter visit.
Are there family-friendly activities or dog-friendly trails around Col de la Croix du Ban?
The area around Col de la Croix du Ban, being part of the Monts du Lyonnais, offers various trails suitable for hiking. While specific 'family-friendly' or 'dog-friendly' designations for trails are not provided, many natural areas in France allow dogs on leash. The wooded setting and diverse terrain can be enjoyable for families, but always ensure trails are appropriate for all ages and fitness levels.
What kind of climbing opportunities are available near the pass?
Approximately 400 meters east of the pass, within a forest, there is a small climbing site. It offers bouldering and short routes with difficulty ratings ranging from 3b to 7a. This wooded setting makes it particularly pleasant for climbing during warmer months.
How long does it typically take to hike trails around Col de la Croix du Ban?
The Col de la Croix du Ban lies on the long-distance hiking trail of the Tour des monts du Lyonnais, meaning hike durations can vary significantly depending on the chosen route and distance. Shorter loops or sections of the main trail could take a few hours, while longer excursions exploring the Monts du Lyonnais could span a full day or more.
Are there any nearby cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options?
While the immediate vicinity of the pass is primarily natural, the surrounding Monts du Lyonnais region and nearby communes like Pollionnay and Saint-Pierre-la-Palud would offer various amenities. For specific cafes, restaurants, or accommodation, it's best to check local tourism resources for the Monts du Lyonnais area, such as montsdulyonnaistourisme.fr.
What historical significance does Col de la Croix du Ban hold?
Historically, the name "Croix du Ban" (Cross of the Ban) suggests that this ridge path once marked the feudal boundary between the Archbishopric of Lyon, the Abbey of Savigny, and the County of Forez. This indicates its past importance as a demarcation point in the region's historical landscape.
What makes the Col de la Croix du Ban a 'compulsory crossing point' as described by visitors?
Visitors often describe it as a "compulsory crossing point" due to its strategic location connecting different valleys within the Monts du Lyonnais. For cyclists, it's a well-known segment of popular routes, and for hikers, it serves as a key junction on the Tour des monts du Lyonnais trail, making it a frequently traversed and recognized landmark in the region.