Sainte-Reine to Saint-Pierre-dAlbigny Mountain Pass Route in the Alps

The road section discussed here is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, connecting the village of Sainte-Reine to the village of Saint-Pierre-d'Albigny. This route crosses the Col du Frêne mountain pass at an elevation of approximately 950 meters (3,117 feet) and passes through the Massif des Bauges, a subrange of the Alps. The road lies within a mountainous terrain characterized by moderate elevation changes, with the lowest point at 390 meters (1,280 feet) and the highest near the pass. The area is known for its Alpine landscapes and rural settlements. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The road spans approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) and is surfaced with asphalt of moderate quality, rated around 3.7 out of 5. It is a mountain pass road with a curviness level described as moderately twisty, offering a mix of gentle and sharper bends. The road width is predominantly wide (about 78%), with middle-width sections making up 16% and narrow sections about 4%. Most of the route (around 80%) consists of two lanes, while a small portion (about 7%) is single-lane. Approximately 42% of the road passes through inhabited areas, including the villages and smaller settlements along the way.

Speed limits vary, with a maximum speed around 80 to 50 km/h (50 to 31 mph), reflecting the road's mountainous nature and safety considerations. The route includes the Col du Frêne, a notable mountain pass that adds elevation and riding interest. The road is suitable for motorcycling, offering a balance of technical riding and manageable conditions.

The Col du Frêne is the key mountain pass on this route, situated at 950 meters (3,117 feet) elevation. It is part of the Massif des Bauges, a mountain range within the larger Alps system. The Massif des Bauges is known for its limestone formations and natural parks, providing a scenic backdrop for riders. The Alps themselves are one of Europe's major mountain ranges, extending across multiple countries and offering numerous motorcycling routes.

Riders on this road experience a transition from lower valley elevations near Sainte-Reine to higher Alpine terrain near the pass, with corresponding changes in landscape and road conditions. The route is a practical example of mountain pass riding in the French Alps.

The road begins near the village of Sainte-Reine and ends near Saint-Pierre-d'Albigny, both small settlements that provide access points to the route. Along the way, the road passes through areas known locally as Route du Col du Frêne, Route des Bauges, and Avenue de l'Arclusaz. These names reflect the local road network and geographic features.

Both villages offer amenities and services for travelers and motorcyclists, making them suitable start or end points for a ride along this mountain pass road. The proximity to inhabited areas also means that riders should be mindful of local traffic and speed regulations.

The road surface is generally in good condition but not perfect, so riders should be prepared for some variability. The route is open year-round but may be subject to seasonal weather conditions typical of Alpine passes, such as snow or ice in winter months. There are no known tolls or entrance fees on this road, but riders should verify current conditions before travel.

For more detailed information about the Col du Frêne, see the French Wikipedia page for Col du Frêne. Additional context about the Massif des Bauges can be found on its Wikipedia page, and the broader Alpine region is described on the German Wikipedia page for the Alps.