Route de Valgorge and Col de Meyrand Motorcycle Route in Cévennes

The Route de Valgorge and Route du Col de Meyrand are situated in the Cévennes, a mountainous region within the Massif Central in southern France. The road begins near the village of Rocher and traverses through several small settlements including Route du Col de Meyrand, Route du Tanargue, Route du Vincent, Route de Saint-Martin, Rue du Villard, and Route de Valgorge. This area is characterized by its rugged terrain and natural beauty, with the road crossing multiple mountain passes and running alongside rivers such as La Baume and La Borne. The Cévennes region is known for its diverse landscapes and is part of the larger Massif Central mountain range. An interactive map showing the road section discussed can be found at the end of this article.

The road extends approximately 39 kilometers (24 miles) and is classified as a mountain pass road. It features a moderately high level of curviness, making it engaging for riders who appreciate twisty routes. The surface is asphalt with a quality rating of 3.5 out of 5, indicating a generally good but not perfect riding surface. The road width varies, with about 55% of the route being wide enough for comfortable two-way traffic, 18% of medium width, and 25% narrow sections. Most of the road (about 80%) consists of two lanes, while a small portion (around 7%) is single lane. Approximately 28% of the route passes through inhabited areas, which may require riders to adjust their speed accordingly.

Elevation along the route ranges from 316 meters (1,037 feet) at the lowest point to 1,371 meters (4,498 feet) at the highest, with three notable mountain passes: Col du Suchet at 483 meters (1,585 feet), Col de la Croix de Rocles at 476 meters (1,562 feet), and Col de Meyrand at 1,370 meters (4,495 feet). The road runs adjacent to the La Baume river for about 36% of its length and the La Borne river for about 4%, adding to the natural appeal of the ride.

The route includes three mountain passes that are significant both geographically and for motorcycling. The Col de Meyrand is the highest and most prominent pass on this road, reaching an elevation of 1,370 meters (4,495 feet). It is well documented and has a dedicated Wikipedia page in French (Col de Meyrand). The other passes, Col du Suchet and Col de la Croix de Rocles, are lower but contribute to the varied elevation profile of the route.

The road also runs alongside the La Baume river (La Baume river) and the La Borne river (La Borne river), which enhances the natural environment along the ride. Additionally, there are viewpoints along the route that offer riders opportunities to stop and appreciate the landscape of the Cévennes.

The road is primarily used for local traffic and tourism, with a moderate proportion passing through inhabited areas. It is suitable for motorcycles due to its asphalt surface and manageable curviness. Riders should be aware that the road crosses mountainous terrain, which may be subject to seasonal weather conditions affecting accessibility. There is no specific information indicating permanent closures or seasonal restrictions, but riders should verify local conditions before planning their trip.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but toll conditions can change, so it is advisable to consult official French road authorities for the latest information. General information about road tolls in France can be found on the official French government website for road travel.

The Route de Valgorge and Route du Col de Meyrand provide a varied motorcycling experience through the Cévennes and Massif Central mountain ranges. The road's proximity to natural features such as rivers and viewpoints makes it an attractive option for riders interested in combining riding with nature observation. For more detailed geographic and tourist information, the Wikipedia pages for Cévennes and Massif Central are recommended.

This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, providing a comprehensive overview for motorcyclists planning to explore this part of France.