Route des Sommets and Col de l'Hospitalet Motorcycle Ride in Massif Central

The Route des Sommets is located in the Massif Central mountain range in France, crossing the Margeride subrange. The road passes through a predominantly mountainous area characterized by elevations ranging from 1070 m (3,510 ft) to 1311 m (4,301 ft). The route ends near the village of Esplantas. This road section runs adjacent to the La Virlange river for a significant portion, providing a natural corridor through the terrain. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The Route des Sommets extends approximately 13 kilometers (8.2 miles) and is primarily an asphalt surface of very high quality, rated 4.9 out of 5. The road is mostly wide (about 97%) and features two lanes for the majority of its length (about 93%), with a small portion being single lane. The road curvature is moderate, rated just above 1 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme twistiness, making it suitable for riders who prefer a balance between straight stretches and gentle curves. The maximum speed limit is 80 km/h (50 mph), appropriate for the road's mountain pass nature.

A key feature of this route is the Col de l'Hospitalet mountain pass, which reaches an elevation of 1308 m (4,291 ft). The road's passage through this mountain pass offers riders an experience typical of mountain roads in the Massif Central. Additionally, the route runs alongside the La Virlange river for approximately 61% of its length, providing a natural scenic element and a consistent waterway reference. More information about the river can be found on its Wikipedia page.

The Route des Sommets traverses two notable mountain ranges: the Massif Central and the Margeride. Both ranges are known for their rugged terrain and natural beauty. The Massif Central is a significant geological feature in France, and the Margeride is a subrange within it. These regions offer a variety of outdoor activities and are less densely populated, with about 29% of the road passing through inhabited areas. For more detailed regional information, see the Massif Central Wikipedia page and the Margeride Wikipedia page.

This article focuses on the specific section of the Route des Sommets described above. Riders should note the excellent road surface and moderate curvature, making it a comfortable mountain pass ride. The road's adjacency to the La Virlange river adds a natural element to the journey. An interactive map illustrating the route is provided below for reference and planning.