Col des Sauvages Mountain Pass Road Between Amplepuis and Tarare

The road section discussed here is located in the Rhône-Alpes region of France, connecting the village of Amplepuis to the town of Tarare. It crosses the Col des Sauvages mountain pass, which sits at an elevation of 723 meters (2,372 feet). This route lies within the Massif Central and Beaujolais mountain ranges, both notable for their varied terrain and natural landscapes. The proximity of the settlements Amplepuis and Tarare provides accessible start and end points for motorcyclists. An interactive map showing the exact road section can be found at the end of this article.

The road spans approximately 13.6 kilometers (8.5 miles) and features an asphalt surface of high quality, rated 4.8 out of 5. It is predominantly a two-lane road (about 95%), with a very small portion consisting of a single lane. The width of the road varies, with the majority being wide (about 77%), some sections of middle width (13%), and a few narrow stretches (8%). The road is moderately curvy, rated at 1.2 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme curviness, offering a balanced riding experience without excessive sharp turns.

Approximately 40.7% of the road passes through inhabited areas, including the settlements of Amplepuis and Tarare, as well as smaller localities along the route such as Route de Tarare, Route de les Sauvages, Route Départementale 8, Rue de Thizy, and Avenue Raoul Follereau. The elevation ranges from 412 meters (1,352 feet) at the lowest point to 724 meters (2,375 feet) at the highest point near the Col des Sauvages.

The defining feature of this route is the Col des Sauvages mountain pass, which is a key geographic marker and a popular reference point for this road. The pass is situated at 723 meters (2,372 feet) and is part of the Massif Central and Beaujolais mountain ranges. These ranges contribute to the varied elevation and terrain along the road, providing a mix of gentle climbs and descents suitable for motorcycling.

The Massif Central is a significant mountainous region in France known for its volcanic origins and rugged landscapes, while the Beaujolais area is famous for its vineyards and rolling hills. This combination offers riders a diverse environment, blending natural mountain scenery with cultivated land.

This road is accessible year-round, although motorcyclists should be aware that mountain pass roads in this region can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, including snow and ice in winter months. There are no specific reports of regular closures or tolls on this route, but riders should verify current conditions before travel. The road's good surface quality and moderate curviness make it suitable for a range of motorcycling skill levels.

Given the road's passage through inhabited areas and its connection between Amplepuis and Tarare, amenities such as fuel, food, and lodging are available nearby. Riders can plan stops accordingly to enhance their touring experience.

For more detailed information about the Col des Sauvages mountain pass, refer to the French Wikipedia page on Col des Sauvages. To understand the broader geographic context, the Massif Central and Beaujolais Wikipedia pages provide comprehensive background on the mountain ranges crossed by this road.

Motorcyclists interested in exploring this route can use the interactive map below to view the exact road section and plan their journey accordingly.