Route de Clermont Ferrand to Route de Saint-Amant via Col des Fourches in Massif Central

The road section discussed is located in the Massif Central mountain range in France, specifically crossing the Livradois subrange. The route connects several local roads including Route de Clermont Ferrand, Route des Fourches, Route de Saint-Amant, Route de la Maisonneuve, and Route de la Roche. The nearest notable settlement to the end of the route is the town of Ambert, situated approximately 1.1 kilometers (0.7 miles) from the route's endpoint. The road traverses elevations ranging from 556 meters (1,824 feet) to 975 meters (3,199 feet), including the Col des Fourches mountain pass at 970 meters (3,182 feet). An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The total length of the road section is approximately 15.6 kilometers (9.7 miles). The road surface is asphalt and is maintained at a very high quality level, rated 4.9 out of 5. The road is predominantly two lanes wide (about 96%), with a very small portion consisting of a single lane (about 1%). The width of the road is mostly wide (about 80%), with some sections of middle width (13%) and a few narrow parts (5%). The road has a moderate level of curviness, rated at 0.9 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy, making it suitable for riders who prefer a balance between straight stretches and gentle bends. Nearly half of the route (47.3%) passes through inhabited areas, providing a mix of rural and semi-urban riding environments.

This route includes the Col des Fourches mountain pass, which is the highest point on the road at 970 meters (3,182 feet). The elevation gain from the lowest point at 556 meters (1,824 feet) to the pass provides a gradual ascent typical of mountain roads in the Massif Central. The pass itself is a key feature for motorcyclists interested in mountain riding, offering a change in elevation and a different riding experience compared to lower altitude sections. The road's maximum speed limits vary between 50 km/h (31 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph), reflecting the road's mixed characteristics and safety considerations in mountainous terrain.

The road crosses two significant mountain ranges: the Massif Central and the Livradois. The Massif Central is a large mountainous region in south-central France known for its volcanic plateaus and diverse landscapes. The Livradois is a subrange within the Massif Central, characterized by forested hills and rural communities. This area is less frequented by international tourists, offering a more authentic and tranquil riding experience. The nearby town of Ambert is known for its historical and cultural heritage, adding interest for riders who may wish to explore local attractions after their ride. More information about the Massif Central can be found on Wikipedia.

This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, providing detailed information for motorcyclists planning to ride this route. The road is open year-round, but riders should be aware that mountain passes like Col des Fourches may experience seasonal weather conditions affecting accessibility, especially in winter. There are no known tolls or entrance fees on this route, but riders should verify current conditions before travel. For more information on road tolls in France, visit the official French road information site. The road's excellent surface quality and moderate curviness make it suitable for a wide range of motorcyclists, from those seeking relaxed rides to those interested in mountain pass challenges.