Cruseilles to Gaillard Mountain Pass Route with Col des Pitons and Col de la Croisette

The road runs in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, linking the village of Cruseilles to the town of Gaillard. Cruseilles is a small village located at the start of the route, while Gaillard is a nearby town approximately 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) from Cruseilles. The road traverses a mountainous area, passing through two mountain passes: Col des Pitons at 1,336 meters (4,383 feet) elevation and Col de la Croisette at 1,175 meters (3,855 feet) elevation. The route is situated within a region known for its natural viewpoints, with numerous vantage points along the way offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The road extends for approximately 23.6 kilometers (14.7 miles) and is surfaced with asphalt. The surface quality is rated as good, with a score of 3.9 out of 5, indicating generally well-maintained pavement suitable for motorcycle touring. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of 1.63 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy. It features a mix of lane configurations: about 26% of the route consists of single-lane sections, while approximately 38% has two lanes. The width of the road varies, with the majority (about 64%) being of medium width, 25% narrow, and 9% wide. Around 28.3% of the road passes through inhabited areas, including the settlements of Route du Salève, Route des Trois Lacs, Route de l'Observatoire, and Place de la Croisette. The maximum speed limits along the route range between 50 km/h (31 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph), reflecting the road's mountainous terrain and safety considerations.

This route is classified as a mountain pass road, featuring two significant passes. The highest point is at Col des Pitons, which reaches an elevation of 1,336 meters (4,383 feet). The second pass, Col de la Croisette, is slightly lower at 1,175 meters (3,855 feet). The road's elevation ranges from a low of 796 meters (2,611 feet) to the highest pass at Col des Pitons. These elevation changes contribute to the road's moderate curviness and provide riders with varied riding conditions and scenic viewpoints. The passes are key landmarks along the route and are often referenced by riders and travelers exploring this part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.

The road runs alongside multiple viewpoints, offering riders opportunities to stop and appreciate the surrounding landscape. There are at least twelve distinct viewpoints along the route, making it attractive for those interested in panoramic vistas and photography. These viewpoints provide visual access to the natural beauty of the region, including mountain ranges and valleys. The presence of these attractions enhances the riding experience, combining technical road features with rewarding stops for rest and observation.

The road section described here is part of a larger network of mountain roads in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Riders should be aware that mountain pass roads can be subject to seasonal closures, especially during winter months due to snow and ice. There are no current tolls or entrance fees associated with this route, but conditions may change, so it is advisable to check local traffic information before planning a trip. For more information about road conditions and travel in France, official resources such as the France Tourism website can be consulted.