Route de Matour and Col de la Croix d'Auterre Motorcycle Ride in Massif Central

The Route de Matour is located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region of France, crossing part of the Massif Central mountain range. The road starts near the village of Brandon and extends through a varied landscape that includes mountain passes and river valleys. The route traverses the Col de la Croix d'Auterre, which sits at an elevation of 557 meters (1,827 feet). The road also runs adjacent to the Grosne river for about 21% of its length, providing a connection to the local hydrography. This section of the Massif Central is characterized by rolling hills and moderate elevation changes, making it a suitable route for motorcyclists interested in mountain pass riding. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The Route de Matour spans approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) and features an asphalt surface with a high-quality rating of 4.4 out of 5. The road is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating of 0.87, offering a balanced riding experience that is neither too technical nor too straightforward. Most of the road (about 88%) consists of two lanes, with a small portion (8%) being single-lane sections. The width of the road is predominantly wide (about 75%), with some middle-width and narrow sections making up the remainder. Around 43% of the route passes through inhabited areas, including several settlements such as Route de la Tramblyronne, Route de la Clayette, Route de Matour, Route de Cluny, Rue de la Clayette, and Grande Rue. Elevations along the road range from 275 meters (902 feet) at the lowest point to 554 meters (1,818 feet) at the highest, closely matching the elevation of the Col de la Croix d'Auterre. The road's alignment and surface quality make it suitable for a comfortable motorcycle ride through the Massif Central.

The defining feature of this route is the Col de la Croix d'Auterre, a mountain pass at 557 meters (1,827 feet) elevation. This pass is part of the Massif Central mountain range, which is known for its volcanic origins and varied terrain. The road's passage through this mountain range offers riders a chance to experience the natural environment of central France, including forested areas and river valleys. The Grosne river, which the road follows for a significant portion, adds to the natural appeal of the route. More information about the Grosne river can be found on its Wikipedia page. The Massif Central itself is a prominent mountain range in France, detailed on its Wikipedia page.

The Route de Matour is accessible year-round, but as a mountain pass road, it may be subject to seasonal weather conditions such as snow or ice in winter months, which could affect riding safety. There are no known tolls or entrance fees on this road, but riders should verify current conditions before travel as toll policies can change. The road surface is well-maintained asphalt, suitable for motorcycles, and the moderate curviness provides an engaging ride without excessive technical difficulty. Riders should be aware that about 43% of the route passes through inhabited areas, so speed limits and local traffic regulations must be observed. For more information on road tolls and fees in France, riders can consult official resources such as the French government transport website or local road authorities.

This article has detailed the Route de Matour, focusing on its location in the Massif Central, road characteristics, mountain pass features, and practical considerations for motorcyclists. The route offers a moderately twisty, well-surfaced ride through varied terrain, including the Col de la Croix d'Auterre and alongside the Grosne river. The road passes through several small settlements, providing a mix of natural and inhabited environments. Below is an interactive map showing the exact section of the road discussed in this article.