Vernoux-en-Vivarais to Guilherand-Granges via Col de la Justice and Col de la Ponsoye

The road runs in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, connecting the village of Vernoux-en-Vivarais to the town of Guilherand-Granges. It traverses the Boutières and Haut-Vivarais mountain ranges, which are part of the larger Massif Central mountain system. The route passes through the Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche, a protected regional natural park known for its diverse landscapes and natural heritage. The road's elevation ranges from 582 meters (1,909 feet) to 684 meters (2,244 feet), crossing two mountain passes: Col de la Justice at 679 meters (2,228 feet) and Col de la Ponsoye at 604 meters (1,982 feet). An interactive map showing the road section discussed can be found at the end of this article.

The road is approximately 13.3 kilometers (8.3 miles) long and primarily surfaced with asphalt of good quality, rated at 4.1 out of 5. It is moderately curvy, offering a balanced riding experience without extreme twists. The majority of the road (about 85%) consists of two lanes, with a small portion (around 9%) being single-lane sections. The road width is predominantly wide (about 79%), with some narrow and medium-width sections. Around 30.7% of the route passes through inhabited areas, including several settlements such as Route de Saint-Péray, Route du Pin, and Avenue Vincent d'Indy. The maximum speed limit along the road is 50 km/h (31 mph), reflecting the mixed terrain and presence of populated zones.

The route crosses two notable mountain passes: Col de la Justice and Col de la Ponsoye. These passes provide elevation changes that contribute to the road's moderate curviness and offer riders varied terrain. The road also passes through the Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche, which is a significant regional natural park known for its protected environment and outdoor recreational opportunities. More information about the park can be found on its official website at Parc naturel régional des Monts d'Ardèche.

The road lies within the historical and geographical regions of Boutières and Haut-Vivarais, both part of the Massif Central mountain range. These regions are characterized by their mountainous landscapes and rural settlements. The road connects a village and a town, providing access to local communities and serving as a link between different parts of the Ardèche department. The area is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it a relevant route for riders interested in exploring the Massif Central.

This article focuses on the road section between Vernoux-en-Vivarais and Guilherand-Granges, including its mountain passes and natural park intersection. Riders should note the moderate curviness and good surface quality, making it suitable for a variety of motorcycle types. The interactive map below illustrates the exact route discussed, providing a visual reference for planning and navigation.