Top 5 Mountain Passes around Moux-En-Morvan

Visitors frequently enjoy Col de la croix d'Allye, known for its shaded climb through the woods. Another favorite is Col de la Croix de Chèvre, which offers diverse climbing experiences with four different approach routes. The Col de la Croix Grenot (643 m) is also popular for its lovely views from the summit.

The mountain passes in this region offer varied gradients, from gentle slopes to challenging sections with maximum gradients of 10%. For example, Col de Moux features an average gradient of 6%, with its second half reaching up to 10%. Similarly, the Col d'en Moulu also has maximum gradients of 10%.

Yes, several passes offer rewarding views. The Col de la Croix Grenot (643 m) provides lovely views of the surrounding area from its summit. Additionally, the Col du Haut-Folin, as the highest point in the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offers panoramic views, especially after the climb.

The highest point in the Morvan Regional Natural Park is the Haut-Folin, with the pass itself reaching an altitude of 873 meters. It serves as a significant drainage divide between the Seine and Loire rivers.

Beyond cycling the passes, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and hiking. For example, there are routes like the 'Settons Lake – Lake of Settons loop' for cycling, 'Lake of Settons – Pinsot Pond loop' for MTB, and 'Settons Lake – Wooden Footbridge on the Lake loop' for hiking. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Cycling around Moux-En-Morvan, MTB Trails around Moux-En-Morvan, and Hiking around Moux-En-Morvan.

Yes, during winter, when snow conditions permit, the Haut-Folin area transforms into a cross-country skiing destination. It offers 40 kilometers of marked trails, and a refuge chalet provides ski and snowshoe rentals.

The Haut-Folin area is particularly notable for mountain biking, featuring three downhill mountain bike trails. It's also a significant point along the Grande Traversée du Massif Central (GTMC) mountain bike route, with a technical and difficult stage passing through it.

Visitors appreciate the varied terrain for climbs and descents, the scenic viewpoints, and the challenging gradients. Many highlight the shaded climbs through the woods, such as those found on Col de la croix d'Allye, and the diverse climbing experiences offered by passes like Col de la Croix de Chèvre.

While not a mountain pass itself, the Croix de la Libération is a notable site in the region, offering panoramic views over the Autun plain from Mount Saint-Sébastien. It commemorates the Liberation of France and is also a location for leisure sports.

The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activity. Summer is ideal for hiking and cycling, especially around Haut-Folin with its walking loops and mountain bike trails. For cross-country skiing, winter is the time to visit, provided there is sufficient snow.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, passes like the Col de la Croix Pilate are known for their steep gradients, reaching up to 10%. The Col de Moux also has sections with maximum gradients of 10% in its second half.

You can learn more about the Morvan Regional Natural Park and its offerings by visiting the official Burgundy Tourism website: Morvan Regional Natural Park.