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Road cycling
5.0
(18)
Col de Champ Juin, prominently marked at 742 meters, is a well-known mountain pass nestled in the picturesque Beaujolais region of France. Located within the Rhône department of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, near the commune of Monsols, this col serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of the area. It is particularly celebrated as a cycling climb, offering rewarding ascents and panoramic views across the rolling landscapes of the Beaujolais.
What truly captivates visitors to Col de Champ Juin are the magnificent…
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June 26, 2023
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Champ Juin Pass - 742 m
3
riders
58.4km
03:07
1,050m
1,050m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
26
riders
121km
06:34
2,360m
2,360m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
17
riders
32.1km
01:40
510m
510m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 700 m
Weather
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Sunday 15 March
8°C
-1°C
33 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
Most visited during
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While commonly marked at 742 meters, some geological surveys suggest slightly different altitudes, such as 731m or 726m. The 742m figure is the most widely recognized for the pass.
While the Col de Champ Juin is primarily known for cycling, the surrounding Beaujolais region offers numerous opportunities for hikers and walkers. You can find various trails and routes for exploring the natural features of the area, including options for different difficulty levels. Specific details for routes like '7 randonnées Col de Champ Juin' can often be found on local hiking platforms or tourist information sites.
The Col de Champ Juin is generally considered a moderate cycling climb. For instance, the ascent from Monsols en Morvan is 5.6 km long with an average gradient of 3.64% and maximum gradients reaching 5.2%. It's categorized as a Category 3 climb, making it a rewarding challenge for most cyclists.
From the summit of Col de Champ Juin, visitors are treated to magnificent panoramic views of the Beaujolais countryside. While specific named viewpoints aren't detailed, the expansive vistas of rolling landscapes, vineyards, and forests are a key attraction. You might also catch glimpses of prominent regional features like Mont Brouilly or Mont Saint-Rigaud on clear days.
Yes, parking facilities are typically available at or near mountain passes like Col de Champ Juin, though specific details on capacity are not provided. It's generally advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
The best time to visit is generally from spring through autumn when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. During winter, conditions can be challenging, with potential for snow and ice, which may affect road accessibility and trail safety. Winter visits would require appropriate gear and caution.
While the cycling climbs might be challenging for younger children, the general area around Col de Champ Juin is family-friendly. Families can enjoy scenic drives, gentle walks, and picnics amidst the beautiful Beaujolais landscape. Specific family-oriented activities would likely be found in nearby towns like Monsols or Saint-Igny-de-Vers.
Dogs are generally welcome on trails and in natural areas around Col de Champ Juin, provided they are kept under control, preferably on a leash, and owners clean up after them. Always check local regulations or signage for any specific restrictions in certain areas or on private land.
Col de Champ Juin itself is a mountain pass and does not have direct amenities. However, the nearby communes of Monsols and Saint-Igny-de-Vers offer various options for cafes, restaurants, and accommodation, ranging from guesthouses to small hotels. These villages serve as excellent bases for exploring the Beaujolais region.
Direct public transport to Col de Champ Juin is limited due to its rural mountain pass location. Visitors typically reach the pass by car or bicycle. Public transport options might exist to larger towns in the Beaujolais region, such as Monsols or Saint-Igny-de-Vers, from where you would need to arrange further transport or cycle to the col.
Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking or cycling on public roads and established trails around Col de Champ Juin. However, if you plan to access private land or participate in organized events, it's always best to check for any specific requirements.