Route de Pré-la-Joux and Route du Linga Mountain Pass Road in the French Alps

The Route de Pré-la-Joux and Route du Linga are situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, crossing the Massif du Chablais mountain range, which is part of the larger Alps system. This road runs through the Val d'Abondance valley, a notable alpine valley known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The road reaches elevations up to 1796 meters (5,889 feet) and includes the Col de Bassachaux mountain pass at 1778 meters (5,833 feet). The nearest significant settlement to the road's end point is the town of Monthey, located approximately 8.4 kilometers (5.2 miles) from the start of the route. An interactive map showing the road section discussed is provided at the end of this article.

The combined length of the Route de Pré-la-Joux and Route du Linga is approximately 12.4 kilometers (7.7 miles). The road surface is asphalt with a high-quality rating of 4.8 out of 5, indicating a smooth and well-maintained pavement suitable for motorcycles. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of 1.77 on a scale where 3 represents extremely twisty roads. Riders can expect a mix of gently curved and more technical sections.

Regarding lane configuration, about 62% of the road consists of a single lane, while approximately 13% has two lanes. The road width varies, with the majority (about 59%) being wide enough for comfortable riding, 36% of middle width, and a small portion (4%) classified as narrow. Nearly half of the route (47.3%) passes through inhabited areas, offering occasional encounters with local traffic.

Speed limits along the road vary, with maximum speeds of 50 km/h (31 mph) and 30 km/h (19 mph) in certain sections, reflecting the road's alpine nature and safety considerations. The route includes the Col de Bassachaux mountain pass, a key feature for riders interested in alpine passes.

The Col de Bassachaux is the principal mountain pass on this route, situated at an elevation of 1778 meters (5,833 feet). This pass is part of the Préalpes de Savoie and the Massif du Chablais mountain ranges, both subranges of the Alps. The road traverses alpine terrain characterized by valleys and ridges, including the Val d'Abondance valley, which the road skirts for about 9% of its length.

The area is known for its viewpoints, with at least two notable spots along the route offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. These viewpoints provide riders with opportunities to pause and appreciate the alpine environment.

The Route de Pré-la-Joux and Route du Linga serve both local traffic and visitors exploring the Massif du Chablais and the broader Alps region. The road's high-quality asphalt surface and moderate curviness make it suitable for motorcycle touring, offering a balance between riding challenge and comfort.

There are no indications of seasonal closures or tolls specific to this road, but riders should be aware that alpine roads can be subject to winter closures due to snow and ice. It is advisable to check local conditions before planning a trip. For general information on road tolls and fees in France, riders can consult official French transport websites.

The road section described in this article is illustrated in the interactive map below, showing the route's path through the Massif du Chablais and its connection to nearby settlements such as Monthey. This visualization aids in understanding the road's elevation changes, curvature, and geographic context within the French Alps.