Rue de l'Ardéchoise Route du Col du Buisson Motorcycle Ride in Ardèche

The Rue de l'Ardéchoise - Route du Col du Buisson is situated in the Ardèche department within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. This road lies in the Massif Central mountain range, specifically crossing the Haut-Vivarais subregion. The nearest settlement to the starting point is the village of Saint-Félicien. The road skirts the Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche, a protected regional natural park known for its diverse landscapes and outdoor activities. The road reaches its highest elevation at the Col du Buisson mountain pass, which stands at 920 meters (3,018 feet). An interactive map showing the road section discussed in this article is provided at the end.

The road extends approximately 13.4 kilometers (8.3 miles) and features an asphalt surface of very high quality, rated 4.9 out of 5. It is moderately twisty, offering a varied riding experience without extreme curves. The road width varies, with about 70% of the route being of medium width, 19% wide, and 10% narrow. The lane configuration is mixed, with roughly 29% of the road being single-lane and 34% two-lane sections. Speed limits along the route vary between 30, 50, 80, and 90 km/h (19, 31, 50, and 56 mph), reflecting changes in road conditions and inhabited areas.

Approximately 34.4% of the road passes through inhabited areas, providing occasional interaction with local traffic. The elevation ranges from 507 meters (1,663 feet) at the lowest point to 921 meters (3,022 feet) at the highest, near the Col du Buisson pass. The road is classified as a mountain pass road and is suitable for riders seeking a moderately challenging route with reliable surface conditions.

The road runs along and skirts the Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche, a regional natural park that offers a protected environment with rich biodiversity. The park is a significant feature of the area and provides a natural backdrop to the ride. More information about the park can be found on its official website at Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche.

Along the route, riders will encounter multiple viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. These viewpoints provide excellent opportunities for rest and photography. The road crosses the Massif Central and Haut-Vivarais mountain ranges, both notable for their geological and ecological significance. Further details about these mountain ranges are available on their respective Wikipedia pages: Massif Central and Haut-Vivarais.

The road is well-maintained with an excellent asphalt surface, making it suitable for motorcycles of various types. Riders should be prepared for moderate curves and changes in elevation. The presence of inhabited areas along the route requires attention to varying speed limits and potential local traffic. The road is open year-round; however, as it is a mountain pass road, winter conditions may affect accessibility, and riders should verify local conditions before planning a trip.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but toll conditions may change in the future. For up-to-date information on road tolls and fees in France, riders can consult official resources such as the French government transport website or local authorities.

This article has detailed the Rue de l'Ardéchoise - Route du Col du Buisson, a mountain pass road in Ardèche, France, crossing notable mountain ranges and skirting a regional natural park. The road offers a moderately twisty ride with excellent surface quality and several viewpoints. Riders can expect a mix of single and two-lane sections with varying widths and speed limits. The natural environment and mountain pass setting provide a rewarding experience for motorcyclists.

An interactive map showing the exact road section discussed is available below for reference.