Route de Laragne and Col de Macuègne Motorcycle Route in Monts de Vaucluse

The Route de Laragne and Route de Sault are located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, specifically within the Monts de Vaucluse area. This road section skirts the Monts de Vaucluse mountain range and crosses the Massifs des Baronnies and the Alps. It passes through several small settlements including La Condamine, Le Chabrérieux, and Place de l'Église. The road also runs adjacent to the Torrent d'Anary river for a significant portion of its length. The route touches two regional natural parks: Parc naturel régional du Mont-Ventoux and Parc naturel régional des Baronnies provençales, both known for their protected landscapes and biodiversity. The highest point on the road is the Col de Macuègne mountain pass at 1068 meters (3504 feet) elevation. An interactive map showing the road section can be found at the end of this article.

The road is approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) long and features an asphalt surface of very good quality, rated 4.4 out of 5. It is moderately twisty, offering a mix of gentle curves and some sharper bends, suitable for riders looking for an engaging but not overly technical ride. The road width varies, with about three quarters of the route being wide enough for comfortable two-way traffic, while narrower sections make up a small portion. Most of the road has two lanes (about 82%), with a small percentage being single-lane stretches. Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds of 30, 50, and 80 km/h (19, 31, and 50 mph) depending on the section. Approximately 31% of the road passes through inhabited areas, requiring riders to be mindful of local traffic and pedestrians.

The highlight of this route is the Col de Macuègne, a mountain pass at 1068 meters (3504 feet) elevation. This pass is a popular waypoint for motorcyclists exploring the region's mountainous terrain. The road skirts the Parc naturel régional du Mont-Ventoux and Parc naturel régional des Baronnies provençales, both of which offer protected natural environments and opportunities for outdoor activities. These parks contribute to the road's appeal by providing scenic surroundings and a sense of remoteness despite the proximity to small settlements. More information about these parks can be found on their official websites: Parc naturel régional du Mont-Ventoux and Parc naturel régional des Baronnies provençales.

The route runs alongside the Torrent d'Anary river for about 36% of its length, providing riders with pleasant river views and a natural ambiance. The river itself is a notable geographic feature in the area and adds to the diversity of the landscape. Additionally, the road passes near viewpoints that allow riders to stop and appreciate the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. These viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities and a chance to rest during the ride. The combination of river adjacency and elevated viewpoints enhances the overall riding experience.

This road section is part of a larger network of routes in the Monts de Vaucluse and surrounding mountain ranges, making it a valuable segment for motorcycle touring in southeastern France. The road surface and width conditions make it accessible for most riders, though caution is advised in inhabited areas and on narrower sections. There are no known tolls or entrance fees for this road, but riders should verify current conditions before travel. For more detailed information about the natural parks and mountain ranges, consult the respective official websites and Wikipedia pages linked throughout the article.