Tournon-sur-Rhône to Saint-Félicien Road in Massif Central

The road section discussed here is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, specifically within the Massif Central mountain range and the Haut-Vivarais area. It connects the town of Tournon-sur-Rhône to the village of Saint-Félicien, running through a landscape characterized by moderate elevation changes from 257 meters (843 feet) to 537 meters (1,762 feet). The route follows the Le Doux river for approximately a quarter of its length, providing a natural corridor through the mountainous terrain. This area is known for its varied topography and rural settlements, making it a notable route for motorcyclists interested in mountain riding. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The road spans approximately 15.6 kilometers (9.7 miles) and is surfaced with asphalt of generally good quality, rated 4.4 out of 5. It features a mix of lane configurations, with about 61% of the route having two lanes and 23% consisting of a single lane. The width varies, with the majority (56%) being wide enough to comfortably accommodate two vehicles, while narrower sections account for about 10%. The road is moderately curvy, with a curviness rating of 1.82 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy, offering a balanced riding challenge without excessive technical difficulty.

Speed limits along the route reach up to 80 to 50 km/h (50 to 31 mph), reflecting the road's alignment and safety considerations in the mountainous environment. Approximately 30% of the road passes through inhabited areas, including the settlements of Route de Tournon, Route de Colombier-Le-Vieux, Route de Saint-Félicien, Grande Rue, Rue du Meunier, and Pont des Étroits, which may require riders to adjust speed and riding style accordingly.

The road traverses the Massif Central, a significant mountain range in France known for its volcanic origins and rugged landscapes. It also crosses the Haut-Vivarais region, which is part of the broader Massif Central area and offers a distinct cultural and natural environment. The proximity to the Le Doux river, which runs for over 108 kilometers (67 miles), adds to the route's appeal, providing scenic river views along about 25% of the road's length. More information about the river can be found on its Wikipedia page.

Riders should be aware that the road is generally well-maintained with a high-quality asphalt surface, making it suitable for a variety of motorcycles. The mix of lane widths and the presence of inhabited areas require attentive riding, especially in sections where the road narrows or passes through villages. The elevation changes are moderate, with the highest point reaching 537 meters (1,762 feet), which may influence weather conditions and temperature during the ride.

There are no known tolls or entrance fees on this road, but riders should verify current conditions before travel as toll policies can change. Seasonal closures are not reported, but it is advisable to check local sources for any temporary restrictions or events that might affect access.

For further exploration of the region, riders can consult resources about the Massif Central and Haut-Vivarais. The settlements along the route, including Tournon-sur-Rhône and Saint-Félicien, offer cultural and historical points of interest.

An interactive map displaying the exact road section discussed is provided below for reference and planning purposes.