Rue du Lac Route de Thizy Mountain Pass Road in Massif Central

The Rue du Lac - Route de Thizy is situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, crossing the Massif Central and Beaujolais mountain ranges. The road starts near the village of Cublize and traverses a mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 355 m (1,165 ft) to 713 m (2,339 ft). This area is known for its rolling hills and natural landscapes characteristic of the Massif Central, a significant mountain range in south-central France. The road also passes through several small settlements including Route de Thizy, Route de la Cambuse, and Rue du Moulin. The Col de la Cambuse mountain pass, at 708 m (2,323 ft), is a notable feature along this route. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The Rue du Lac - Route de Thizy extends approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) and is surfaced with high-quality asphalt rated at 4.6 out of 5. The road is moderately curvy, offering a balanced riding experience that is neither too technical nor too straightforward. It predominantly consists of two lanes (about 84%), with a small portion being single lane (6%). The road width is mostly wide (about 75%), with some sections narrower or of medium width. Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds of 50, 70, and 80 km/h (31, 43, and 50 mph) depending on the segment. Approximately one-third (32.7%) of the road passes through inhabited areas, which requires riders to be attentive to local traffic and pedestrians. The road crosses the Col de la Cambuse, a mountain pass that adds elevation and interest to the ride.

The Col de la Cambuse is the primary mountain pass on this route, situated at an elevation of 708 m (2,323 ft). This pass is part of the larger Massif Central mountain range, which dominates the geography of this part of France. The road also intersects the Beaujolais mountain range, known for its vineyards and rolling hills. These mountain ranges provide a varied backdrop for motorcyclists, combining natural beauty with moderate elevation changes. The Massif Central is a significant geological feature in France, and more information can be found on its Wikipedia page. Similarly, the Beaujolais region is well documented on its Wikipedia page.

The road passes through several small settlements including Route de Thizy, Route de la Cambuse, Route du Val d'Azergues, Route du Val de Reins, Route de Saint-Vincent, Rue du Lac, Rue du Moulin, and Rue de l'Hôtel de Ville. These villages offer glimpses into rural life in the Massif Central and Beaujolais regions. The proximity to these inhabited areas means riders should be cautious and respectful of local traffic regulations. The village of Cublize near the starting point is a notable settlement in the area. While the road itself does not have major tourist attractions, the surrounding mountain ranges and local culture provide a rich context for exploration.

The road surface is well maintained, making it suitable for motorcycles seeking a reliable and enjoyable ride through mountainous terrain. There are no known seasonal closures or tolls on this road, but riders should verify current conditions before travel as these can change. For more information on road tolls and entrance fees in France, riders can consult official French transport websites. This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, providing a detailed overview for motorcyclists interested in exploring this part of the Massif Central.