Top 11 Mountain Passes around Thizy-Les-Bourgs

The region around Thizy-les-Bourgs, situated in the Beaujolais Vert, offers a diverse range of passes, locally known as 'cols,' and challenging ascents. You'll find routes with varied gradients, from gentle 3-4% slopes to steep sections reaching 25%. These include classic Beaujolais passes and significant local climbs, catering to different levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

For panoramic vistas, Col du Pavillon is a great choice, offering unobstructed views on its western slope. The Cambuse Pass also provides beautiful, often clear views along its routes. Additionally, the Col de Saint-Bonnet is known for its stunning panoramas over the Beaujolais region.

Yes, several passes offer more gentle gradients. The main route for Cambuse Pass features a gentle 3-4% gradient over about 9 km. Similarly, the Col de la Croix Montmain is characterized by a relatively gentle average gradient of 6.1%, making it enjoyable for many cyclists. The Col du Pavillon also generally features simple gradients from various approach sides.

For a significant challenge, the Cambuse Pass has a variant through Gondras with sections reaching 25%. The Côte De La Fontaine Girard, a local ascent from Thizy-les-Bourgs, is also particularly demanding with an average gradient of 8.5% and a maximum slope of 16.3%.

The region offers excellent opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including moderate to difficult routes like the 'Pine Lake – View of Lac des Sapins loop' or the 'Croix Botillon loop'. For cyclists, there are extensive road cycling routes and challenging MTB trails that converge at passes like Col de Favardy (862 m).

Yes, Col de Favardy (862 m) is a notable spot as many gravel and mountain bike trails converge there, and the GR7 also passes by. The Col de la Croix Montmain can also be combined with gravel hiking trails for a varied experience.

The region is generally enjoyable for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and autumn. In summer, be aware that some parts of passes, especially from the Rhins side of Cambuse Pass, can be exposed to the sun for extended periods. The forest atmosphere of passes like Col de Favardy (862 m) can be particularly appreciable in foggy weather, offering a mysterious ambiance.

Yes, at the summit of Col du Pavillon, you'll find the Le Pavillon hostel-hotel, which offers good food and is a great spot to take a break after your climb. For other passes, you might find amenities in nearby villages or towns like Thizy-les-Bourgs itself.

The passes are set amidst rolling hills and green valleys, offering picturesque views. You'll experience varied landscapes, from clear, open vistas on passes like Cambuse Pass and Col de Saint-Bonnet, to the refreshing forest atmosphere found at Col de la Croix des Fourches and Col de Favardy (862 m), especially in wet or foggy conditions.

Visitors appreciate the varied ascents and the beautiful, often clear views along the way. Cyclists particularly enjoy the diverse challenges and rewarding efforts. The forest atmosphere on some passes, especially in certain weather conditions, is also highlighted as a unique and enjoyable aspect.

The Pilon Pass (727 m) features a slight but very long slope, making it a rolling pass. While there is a wide cycle lane, some visitors note significant traffic, including heavy goods vehicles and motorbikes, which can impact the sense of safety. It's often suggested to consider alternative passes for connections to avoid heavy traffic sections.