Ambert to Viverols Mountain Pass Road in Massif Central

The road connecting Ambert and Viverols is situated in the Massif Central mountain range in France. This route traverses the Monts du Forez and skirts the Livradois mountain ranges, providing a passage through a notable part of the Massif Central. The starting point is near the town of Ambert, and the road ends near the village of Viverols. The highest point on this route is the Col de Chemintrand mountain pass, which reaches an elevation of 1029 m (3,376 ft). The road passes through a mix of inhabited and rural areas, with approximately 30.4% of the route running through settlements. An interactive map showing this road section is available at the end of the article.

The Ambert to Viverols road is approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) long and features an asphalt surface of high quality, rated 4.6 out of 5. The road is moderately curvy, offering a riding experience that balances gentle bends with some sharper turns, suitable for riders who prefer a route that is engaging without being overly technical. The road width varies, with about 61% of the route being wide enough for comfortable two-way traffic, 27% of medium width, and 10% narrow sections. Most of the road (about 87%) consists of two lanes, while a small portion (6%) is single lane. Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds of 80 km/h (50 mph), 70 km/h (44 mph), and 50 km/h (31 mph) depending on the section. The elevation ranges from 576 m (1,890 ft) at the lowest point to 1029 m (3,376 ft) at the Col de Chemintrand pass, which is the highest point on this mountain pass road.

The key feature of this route is the Col de Chemintrand mountain pass, which sits at 1029 m (3,376 ft) elevation. This pass is part of the Monts du Forez mountain range, itself a subrange of the larger Massif Central. The road also skirts the Livradois range, adding to the diverse mountainous terrain. The Massif Central is a significant geological and geographical feature in France, known for its volcanic origins and extensive uplands. More information about the Massif Central can be found on Wikipedia. The Monts du Forez and Livradois ranges contribute to the varied landscape and riding conditions along this route.

The road surface is predominantly asphalt and in very good condition, making it suitable for most types of motorcycles. The route is mostly two lanes wide, allowing for safe overtaking and comfortable riding. Riders should be aware of the varying speed limits and adjust accordingly. Approximately 30% of the road passes through inhabited areas, so caution is advised in these sections. There are no indications of seasonal closures or tolls on this road, but riders should verify current conditions before travel. For more detailed local information on road tolls and fees in France, consult official French transport resources.

This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, which provides an interactive overview of the route from Ambert to Viverols via the Col de Chemintrand. For riders planning a trip, this map is a useful tool to understand the road layout and surrounding geography.