Route du Camp d'Ambel and Col de la Croix in Massif du Vercors

The Route du Camp d'Ambel is situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. It traverses the Massif du Vercors, a subrange of the Alps known for its limestone plateaus and rugged terrain. The road begins near the village of Saint-Jean-en-Royans and extends through several small settlements including Route de Bouvante le Haut, Route du Col de la Croix, and Place du Bassin. The road crosses the Col de la Croix mountain pass, which sits at an elevation of 722 meters (2,372 feet). This area is part of a larger alpine environment characterized by varied elevations and natural landscapes. An interactive map showing the road section discussed is available at the end of this article.

The Route du Camp d'Ambel spans approximately 14.4 kilometers (8.9 miles) and features an asphalt surface of high quality, rated 4.5 out of 5. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of 1.6 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme twistiness. Riders can expect a mix of one-lane and two-lane sections, with about 35% of the road being single lane and roughly 57% two lanes. The road width varies, with narrow sections comprising 18%, medium width sections 45%, and wide sections about 35% of the total length. Approximately one-third (33.9%) of the route passes through inhabited areas, offering occasional glimpses of local settlements.

Elevation along the road ranges from 285 meters (935 feet) at its lowest point to 721 meters (2,365 feet) at its highest, near the Col de la Croix pass. This elevation change provides a varied riding experience with gentle climbs and descents. The road is part of a mountain pass route, making it suitable for riders interested in alpine terrain and moderate technical riding challenges.

The defining feature of this route is the Col de la Croix mountain pass, which the road crosses at 722 meters (2,372 feet). This pass is a notable point within the Massif du Vercors, a mountain range known for its dramatic cliffs and plateaus. The Massif du Vercors itself is part of the larger Alps mountain system, which extends across several European countries. The road's passage through these mountain ranges offers riders a unique opportunity to experience the diverse geological and natural features of the region.

For more detailed information about the Massif du Vercors, refer to the Massif du Vercors Wikipedia page. For broader context on the Alps, see the Alps Wikipedia page.

The road passes through or near several small settlements, including Route de Bouvante le Haut, Route du Camp d'Ambel, Rue des Cruisoux, and Place du Bassin. The nearest notable village at the start of the route is Saint-Jean-en-Royans, which provides access to local amenities and services. These settlements offer a glimpse into rural life in the region and can serve as convenient stops for riders to rest or refuel.

While the road itself does not have major tourist attractions directly on it, its location within the Massif du Vercors places it near natural parks and outdoor recreational areas. Riders interested in exploring further can consider visiting the nearby protected areas and hiking trails that characterize this part of the French Alps.

The Route du Camp d'Ambel is open year-round, but riders should be aware that mountain pass roads in this region can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, including snow and ice in winter months. It is advisable to check local weather and road conditions before planning a trip. There are no known tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but toll policies can change, so riders should verify current information through official French road authorities.

For more information on tolls and road regulations in France, riders can consult the official French road information website.