Rue des Alpes Route des Vergers Motorcycling in the Massif des Écrins

The Rue des Alpes - Route des Vergers is situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, crossing the Massif des Écrins mountain range, part of the larger Alps system. The road begins near the village of La Mure and extends through a mountainous landscape that includes the Parc national des Écrins (aire d’adhésion), a protected national park area. The route passes close to Lac du Sautet, a lake covering approximately 2.99 square kilometers, adding to the natural features accessible along the way. This road section is notable for its elevation range from 616 meters (2,021 feet) to 944 meters (3,097 feet), providing riders with varied altitude experiences. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The Rue des Alpes - Route des Vergers extends for approximately 25 kilometers (15.6 miles) and is surfaced with asphalt of generally good quality, rated at 4.1 out of 5. The road is predominantly two lanes wide (about 93%) and mostly wide in width (about 96%), allowing comfortable passage for motorcycles and other vehicles. It is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating of 0.95, offering a balanced riding challenge without extreme bends. Speed limits vary along the route, including 30, 50, 70, and 80 km/h (19, 31, 43, and 50 mph), reflecting changes in road conditions and inhabited areas. Approximately one-third (33.4%) of the road passes through inhabited zones, requiring attentive riding. The road also intersects with several named routes and streets such as Route Napoléon, Route Nationale 85, and Rue du Pied de Ville, indicating its integration into the regional road network.

The road traverses the Parc national des Écrins (aire d’adhésion), a significant protected area known for its alpine landscapes and biodiversity. Riders can enjoy multiple viewpoints along the route, providing opportunities to observe the surrounding mountains and valleys. The proximity to Lac du Sautet offers additional scenic interest, with the lake situated near the road. The Massif des Écrins and the Taillefer mountain ranges frame the route, contributing to the area's rugged terrain and natural beauty. These features make the road appealing for riders interested in mountain environments and nature observation.

There is no specific information indicating seasonal or event-related closures for motorcycles on this road. However, given its location in a mountainous national park area, winter conditions may affect accessibility, and riders should verify local conditions before planning a trip. Currently, there are no tolls or entrance fees associated with using this road, but toll policies can change, so it is advisable to consult official French road authorities for the latest information. More details on road tolls and fees in France can be found on the French autoroutes toll information site.

The Rue des Alpes - Route des Vergers offers a moderately twisty, well-maintained asphalt road suitable for motorcycle touring in the French Alps. Its passage through the Parc national des Écrins and proximity to Lac du Sautet provide natural highlights, while the road's width and lane configuration support comfortable riding. Riders should be aware of varying speed limits and the presence of inhabited areas along the route. This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, providing a comprehensive overview for motorcyclists planning to explore this part of the Massif des Écrins.