Col de Cheiron Mountain Pass Road in Alpes de Provence

The road section discussed here is situated in the Alpes de Provence region of France, within the broader area of the Maritime Alps and the Préalpes de Castellane. It crosses multiple mountain ranges including the Préalpes de Digne and the Alps. The nearest settlement to both the start and end points of the road is the town of Castellane, located approximately 7 to 8 kilometers away. The road traverses elevations ranging from 747 meters (2,451 feet) to 930 meters (3,051 feet), including the Col de Cheiron mountain pass at 887 meters (2,910 feet). The route also runs adjacent to the Verdon river for a small portion of its length, providing a natural landmark along the way. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The road is approximately 12.3 kilometers (7.6 miles) long and features an asphalt surface of good quality, rated 4.1 out of 5. It is moderately curvy, offering a riding experience that balances technical turns with stretches of more straightforward riding. The road predominantly consists of two lanes (about 86%) and is mostly wide (about 68%) with some sections of medium width (about 31%). There are no narrow sections reported. The maximum speed limits vary between 50 km/h (31 mph) and 70 km/h (43 mph), reflecting the road's mountain pass nature and safety considerations. Around 13.8% of the road passes through inhabited areas, primarily near Castellane. The route includes a viewpoint attraction, enhancing the experience with opportunities to observe the surrounding mountainous landscape.

The Col de Cheiron mountain pass is the defining feature of this road section, situated at an elevation of 887 meters (2,910 feet). This pass is part of the Alpes de Provence and the Préalpes de Castellane mountain ranges, which are known for their rugged terrain and natural beauty. The road's proximity to the Verdon river, which stretches over 239 kilometers (149 miles), adds to the natural appeal of the area. The river is a significant geographic feature in the region and is well documented on Wikipedia at Verdon (river). The surrounding mountain ranges, including the Maritime Alps and the broader Alps, contribute to the varied elevation and landscape encountered along the route.

This mountain pass road is accessible year-round, although typical mountain weather conditions may affect riding safety during winter months. There is no specific information indicating seasonal closures or restrictions for motorcycles. The road does not currently have any tolls or entrance fees, but riders should be aware that toll conditions can change over time. For updated information on road tolls and fees in France, riders can consult official French transport websites or tourism portals. The road's asphalt surface and moderate curviness make it suitable for riders seeking a balanced mountain pass experience without extreme technical challenges.

This article has detailed the Col de Cheiron mountain pass road in the Alpes de Provence region, highlighting its location, road characteristics, natural surroundings, and practical considerations for motorcyclists. The route offers a moderately twisty ride with good surface quality, crossing notable mountain ranges and running alongside the Verdon river. Riders can expect a mix of wide and medium-width lanes with manageable speed limits. The road section covered here can be seen on the interactive map below, providing a visual reference for planning a ride.