Faubourg de Belfort Rue du Ballon d'Alsace D465 Motorcycle Route in Vosges

The Faubourg de Belfort - Rue du Ballon d'Alsace section of the D465 road is situated in the eastern part of France, within the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. It crosses the Vosges mountain range, specifically passing through the Trouée de Belfort area. This road traverses the Réserve naturelle des Ballons Comtois, a protected natural reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna. The route includes the Col du Ballon d'Alsace mountain pass, which sits at an elevation of 1165 meters (3,822 feet). The road connects several settlements and localities including Route du Ballon d'Alsace, Rue de Belfort, Faubourg de Belfort, Rue de la 1re DFL, Grande Rue, Place des Mineurs, and Rue du Ballon d'Alsace. An interactive map showing the road section can be found at the end of this article.

The D465 road section from Faubourg de Belfort to Rue du Ballon d'Alsace extends approximately 18 kilometers (11.1 miles). It is primarily an asphalt-surfaced road with a high-quality surface rating of 4.5 out of 5, indicating a smooth and well-maintained pavement suitable for motorcycle touring. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of about 1.09, offering a balanced riding experience without excessive sharp bends. Most of the road (about 90%) consists of two lanes, with a small portion (around 1%) being single-lane. The width of the road is predominantly wide (about 87%), with some sections of medium width (11%) and a minimal narrow portion (1%).

The elevation varies significantly along the route, starting from a low point of 463 meters (1,519 feet) and reaching up to 1174 meters (3,852 feet) near the mountain pass. Speed limits vary between 30 km/h (19 mph) in inhabited or restricted areas, 50 km/h (31 mph), 70 km/h (43 mph), and up to 80 km/h (50 mph) on open stretches. Approximately 48.2% of the road passes through inhabited areas, requiring riders to be attentive to local traffic and conditions.

The highlight of this route is the Col du Ballon d'Alsace, a well-known mountain pass in the Vosges range. The pass is a popular destination for motorcyclists and cyclists alike, offering panoramic views and a challenging ascent. The road passes through the Réserve naturelle des Ballons Comtois, a national nature reserve that protects the unique ecosystems of the Ballons Comtois area. Riders can expect to encounter several viewpoints along the route, providing opportunities to stop and appreciate the natural landscape.

The Ballon d'Alsace area is part of the larger Vosges mountain range, which is characterized by rounded summits and dense forests. This region is notable for its biodiversity and outdoor recreational opportunities. More information about the Ballon d'Alsace can be found on its Wikipedia page, and details about the Réserve naturelle des Ballons Comtois are available on its Wikipedia page.

The road runs through the Trouée de Belfort, a strategic natural corridor between the Vosges and Jura mountains. This area has historical and geographical importance, serving as a passageway for trade and travel. Along the route, riders will find multiple viewpoints that offer expansive vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, enhancing the riding experience with visual rewards.

The region is also known for its outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling, making it a multi-use destination. The proximity to the natural reserve and the mountain pass adds ecological and recreational value to the route. For more information on the Trouée de Belfort, see its Wikipedia page.

This article focuses on the specific section of the D465 road between Faubourg de Belfort and Rue du Ballon d'Alsace, as shown on the map below. Riders should be aware that the road is subject to seasonal conditions typical of mountain passes, including possible winter closures or restrictions. There are no known tolls or entrance fees for this road, but conditions may change, and riders are advised to check local sources before travel.

For further details on road conditions, closures, and tolls in France, official information can be found on the French government transport websites. The D465 road offers a reliable and enjoyable route for motorcyclists seeking a moderate challenge combined with natural beauty and regional interest.