Top 20 Mountain Passes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Best mountain passes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté are found across diverse landscapes, including parts of the Jura Mountains, the Vosges Mountains, and the Morvan Regional Natural Park. These passes offer challenging climbs, panoramic views, and historical significance. The region's geography provides varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best mountain passes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
- The most popular mountain pass is Ballon d'Alsace, a natural monument and mountain pass. This pass holds historical significance as the site of the first official mountain climb in the…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
Ballon de Servance
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The highest point in the Haute-Saône department, the Ballon de Servance is partly …
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Mont de Fourche Pass
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Haut-Folin Pass
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Chevrères Pass
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Ascent of the Ballon d'Alsace from Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle
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Col de la Joux
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Col des Enceints - 529 m
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Col des Croix
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The summit which is located at 679 meters was crossed during the Tours de France 2014 and 2019.
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Col du Bois Clair
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Col de Landoz-Neuve
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Popular around Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Triathlon 360 – my journey around the world
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GR 9 from the Jura to the Mediterranean – Crossing contrasts
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Sentier de l'Europe (GR 5) – Montbéliard to Abreschviller
Other adventures in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Tips from the Community
A small pass after the Ballon de Severance. Refreshment stand with a view.
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The Col du Bois Clair is a 396-meter high French mountain pass in the Massif Central. It is located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in the Saône-et-Loire department and lies within the municipality of Sologny. The pass summit is crossed by the departmental road D17. Beneath the pass runs the Tunnel du Bois Clair, a former railway tunnel. At 1.6 kilometers long, it is the longest tunnel in France accessible to bicycles. Today it serves as part of the Voie Verte cycle path, but is closed from October to April to protect hibernating bats.
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The Col des Enceints is a mountain pass in the French region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté (Département Saône-et-Loire) with a summit elevation of 529 meters. The pass is located in the Mâconnais mountains (Monts du Mâconnais) near the municipality of Bourgvilain. It is a popular route, especially among cyclists and hikers: For cyclists: The ascent from Pierreclos extends over approximately 4.3 kilometers with an elevation difference of about 257 meters and an average gradient of just under 6% (up to 12% at its steepest). For hikers: A moderate, approximately 8.5-kilometer circular hiking trail from Bourgvilain leads over the pass, among other routes, passing through forests and past small hamlets.
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Climbed it today (17-8-25); it's open, and there are signs along the road showing your progress. Traffic is quiet, and a beautiful green climb, especially further on.
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Classified as 3rd category, the Col de la Joux was crossed during the 8th stage of the 2017 Tour De France!
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Passage of the 2024 Women's Tour de France
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I did it on a muscle bike without problem and now on an e-bike
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Small collar, easy and pleasant to assemble.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the mountain passes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté unique?
The mountain passes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté are unique due to their diverse landscapes, ranging from the challenging climbs of the Jura and Vosges Mountains to the serene forests of the Morvan Regional Natural Park. Many passes boast historical significance, particularly in cycling, and offer breathtaking panoramic views, making them popular for various outdoor activities.
Which mountain passes are known for their historical significance in cycling?
The Ballon d'Alsace is particularly famous as the site of the first official mountain climb in the Tour de France in 1905. Other passes like the Col du Grand Ballon and Col de la Faucille have also been featured multiple times in the Tour de France, offering challenging routes for cyclists.
Where can I find the highest mountain passes in the region?
The highest point in the Vosges Mountains is the Col du Grand Ballon, reaching an elevation of 1,343 meters. In the Haute-Saône department, the Ballon de Servance is the highest point at 1,216 meters. Within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, the Haut-Folin Pass is the highest at 873 meters.
Are there mountain passes with stunning panoramic views?
Absolutely. The Ballon d'Alsace offers extensive views of the Vosges, Rhine Valley, Black Forest, and even the distant Alps. From the Col de la Faucille, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Alps, including the Mont Blanc massif, and sweeping views of the Lake Geneva basin. The Col du Grand Ballon also provides stunning vistas towards the Black Forest and the Alps.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these mountain passes?
The region around these mountain passes is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including challenging climbs and scenic loops, as well as running trails and easy hikes. For more detailed information on routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Running Trails in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, and Easy Hikes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté guides.
Which passes are recommended for challenging cycling experiences?
For cyclists seeking a demanding experience, the Col du Grand Ballon offers several routes with average gradients over 7%. The Col du Marchairuz in the Jura Mountains is also known for its challenging climbs, as is the Col de la Croix with its steep gradients and numerous hairpin bends.
Are there any less-trafficked or 'hidden gem' mountain passes?
Yes, the Mont de Fourche Pass in the Vosges is noted for having little traffic, offering a tranquil experience. Similarly, the Ballon de Servance is described as being in lonely nature with very little traffic, providing a quieter ascent.
What is the best time to visit the mountain passes in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté?
The best time to visit is generally from spring to autumn for cycling and hiking, when the weather is milder and roads are clear. Some passes, like the Ballon de Servance, may have access roads partially closed in winter due to snow, making them more seasonal destinations. Winter offers opportunities for Alpine and cross-country skiing at places like the Ballon d'Alsace and Col de la Faucille.
Can I find places to eat or rest at the summits of these passes?
Yes, at the summit of the Col du Grand Ballon, restaurants are available, allowing visitors to refuel while enjoying the scenery. Other passes may have smaller facilities or be near villages with amenities.
Which mountain passes are known for their unique natural features?
The Haut-Folin Pass in the Morvan Regional Natural Park is surrounded by deep coniferous and deciduous forests, wooded ridges, clearings, and peat bogs, offering a unique 'Nordic' character for hikers. The Col du Grand Ballon is part of the scenic Route des Crêtes, known for its varied terrain.
What do komoot users appreciate most about these mountain passes?
Komoot users appreciate the historical significance of passes like the Ballon d'Alsace for cycling, the beautiful scenery and good road surfaces for training, and the quiet, less-trafficked routes like the Ballon de Servance for a peaceful experience. The challenging yet rewarding climbs and panoramic views are consistently highlighted.
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