Route d'Avenas and Col du Fût d'Avenas Motorcycle Route in Beaujolais

The Route d'Avenas is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, traversing the Beaujolais and Massif Central mountain ranges. The road runs from the vicinity of Belleville-en-Beaujolais, a town situated approximately 7.9 kilometers (4.9 miles) from the road's endpoint, through a series of small settlements including Route d'Avenas, Route d'Ouroux, and Place de la Pompe. This area is known for its rolling hills and mountainous terrain, with elevations ranging from 289 meters (948 feet) to 745 meters (2,444 feet). The road also crosses two notable mountain passes: Col du Fût d'Avenas at 762 meters (2,500 feet) and Col du Truges at 496 meters (1,627 feet). An interactive map showing the road section discussed in this article can be found at the end.

The Route d'Avenas extends for approximately 13.1 kilometers (8.1 miles) and features an asphalt surface of high quality, rated 4.5 out of 5. The road is moderately curvy, offering a mix of gentle bends and some sharper turns, making it suitable for riders who enjoy a varied riding experience without extreme technical challenges. The road width is predominantly wide (about 81%), with middle and narrow sections making up the remainder. Most of the road (about 76%) consists of two lanes, while single-lane sections account for roughly 10%. Around 40% of the route passes through inhabited areas, providing occasional urban riding conditions.

Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds of 80 km/h (50 mph), 50 km/h (31 mph), and 30 km/h (19 mph) depending on the section. The elevation gain is significant, climbing from the lowest point at 289 meters (948 feet) to the highest at 745 meters (2,444 feet), including the ascent over the Col du Fût d'Avenas mountain pass. The road's mountain pass status adds to its appeal for motorcyclists seeking elevation changes and panoramic views.

The Route d'Avenas crosses two mountain passes that are key features of the ride. The first is the Col du Truges at 496 meters (1,627 feet), which provides a moderate elevation point early in the route. The second and more prominent pass is the Col du Fût d'Avenas, reaching 762 meters (2,500 feet). This pass is a highlight for riders due to its elevation and the surrounding landscape typical of the Beaujolais mountain range.

Both passes contribute to the road's classification as a mountain pass road and offer riders a combination of elevation changes and natural beauty. The Col du Fût d'Avenas is particularly notable and has a dedicated Wikidata entry (Q90929233) for those interested in further technical details.

The road runs along a viewpoint that offers riders and visitors an opportunity to appreciate the natural environment of the Beaujolais region. The Beaujolais area is well known for its wine production and rolling hills, while the broader Massif Central mountain range adds geological and ecological interest. More information about the Beaujolais region can be found on its Wikipedia page, and details about the Massif Central are available on its Wikipedia page.

The road's proximity to Belleville-en-Beaujolais, a small town, provides access to local amenities and cultural experiences. This combination of natural and cultural attractions makes the Route d'Avenas a worthwhile ride for motorcyclists interested in exploring the region.

The Route d'Avenas is maintained with a high-quality asphalt surface and is generally open year-round, although riders should verify local conditions during winter months due to its mountain pass status. There are no known tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but conditions may change, so checking official French road information sources is advisable.

For more detailed mapping and route planning, riders can consult local resources or official French road authorities. The interactive map below provides a visual representation of the road section discussed in this article.