Mountain passes around Vernay are situated in a region of eastern France, characterized by elevations ranging from approximately 393 to 940 meters. The area features a landscape of forests and agricultural land, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. This region offers a network of trails and roads that traverse its natural features. The mountain passes serve as routes connecting different valleys and offer access to the surrounding natural environment.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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The Col de Durbize is a mountain pass at 550 meters above sea level in the municipality of Chiroubles, in the heart of the Beaujolais wine region. The pass is located in the Massif Central and, as an important road junction (intersection of roads D26, D86, and D18E1), connects surrounding wine villages such as Villié-Morgon and Beaujeu. It is particularly popular with road cyclists and hikers for its panoramic views.
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Several possible routes through the vineyards towards Villié-Morgon, notably via Chiroubles.
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Giant bike made by the Beaujolais bike club.
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Col de Favardy alt 856m Departure from many trails
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“Each of these crosses can tell its own story and what prompted people to erect “their” cross at this point. (...) These wayside crosses were erected as visible signs and attract the attention of many people. The cross is a symbol of life. It stands as a sign of our Christian hope and wants to direct our gaze to Jesus Christ, who has overcome death (...). The cross is part of our life as it was in the life of Jesus. So I wish that many people … visit the crosses, whether as places of stillness and breathing space before God, whether as places for community gatherings, prayer and praise to God.” (Text source: Dean Rainald M. Ollig in: “Crossroads. Small sacred monuments as a sign of popular piety")
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Nice pass to do from the Azergues valley via St Nizier and the Col de la Croix Nicelle: until the Croix Nicelle the percentages are around 7/8% then the final flattens out. From Ranchal or from St Vincent de Reins via St Bonnet le Troncy, the climbs are less complicated but long because the pass is quite high at 862 m. The view at the top is non-existent but the forest atmosphere can be appreciable in foggy weather which gives it a mysterious atmosphere. Many gravel or mountain bike trails converge here and the GR7 passes by.
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Nice pass to do from Claveisolles, St Didier sur Beaujeu, Marchampt, la Varenne. The hardest percentages are from Varenne which takes a very small road, very little frequented with a beautiful view of the vines. The other climbs are more regular turning around 5/6%. From Claveisolles we go up in a very pleasant little valley. The view at the top is mainly on the Azergues side. Note that a very pleasant little road goes in the direction of Chénellette or Vernay, we are alone in the world.
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The region around Vernay offers a variety of mountain passes, including forested passes, those with scenic viewpoints, and intermediate climbs. You'll find routes suitable for different levels of difficulty and scenic preferences, often traversing landscapes of forests and agricultural land.
Yes, Col de Casse Froide offers views mainly towards the Azergues side. Similarly, Col de Crie, 622 m provides quite a nice view at its summit. For a different kind of scenic experience, Col de Favardy (862 m) is appreciated for its forest atmosphere, especially in foggy weather.
Many passes, such as Col de Casse Froide and Col de Crie, 622 m, are considered intermediate with regular gradients. Some ascents to these passes can be steeper, like the 7-8% percentages encountered when approaching Col de Favardy (862 m) from certain directions. The region caters to a range of abilities.
Yes, the Col de Crie Hiking and Trail Center is a family-friendly spot. It offers multiple starting points for hikes, picnic areas, and games for children, including a zip line. It also has a café and bike rental services.
The area is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including challenging ones like the "Château de Varennes – Col de Casse Froide loop from Lafayette" as part of Cycling around Vernay. For mountain biking, there are trails like the "Picnic area – Crie Pass loop from Avenas" available in MTB Trails around Vernay. Running enthusiasts can explore routes such as the "Rochefort Cross loop from Beaujeu" from Running Trails around Vernay.
Many mountain passes serve as excellent starting points for hikes. For instance, Col de Crie Hiking and Trail Center is a hub for multiple hiking routes. The GR7 long-distance trail also passes through Col de Favardy (862 m), offering connections to a wider network of trails.
The region is characterized by extensive forests and agricultural land. Many passes, like Col de Favardy (862 m), are known for their deep forest atmosphere. You'll also encounter various valleys and natural landscapes as the passes connect different parts of the region.
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not listed, popular starting points like the Col de Crie Hiking and Trail Center are designed to accommodate visitors, suggesting parking facilities are likely available there for those embarking on hikes.
Near the mountain passes, you can find sites like Croix d'Ajoux, which is a religious building and a mountain pass. These crosses often have historical significance, telling stories of local piety and serving as traditional landmarks in the landscape.
Visitors appreciate the variety of ascent options with regular gradients, the scenic views towards areas like Azergues, and the peaceful forest atmosphere found at passes like Col de Favardy (862 m). The region is also valued for its network of trails suitable for cycling, mountain biking, and hiking, and for facilities like the Col de Crie Hiking and Trail Center which caters to families.
Yes, Col de Crie, 622 m serves as a starting point for ascents like Mont St Rigaud, offering a gateway to more extended or challenging routes in the area.
The Col de Crie Hiking and Trail Center is a good example of amenities available, featuring a café, shop, and bike rental services. This center acts as a convenient stop for refreshments and supplies while exploring the passes.


See even more epic mountain passes by checking out these guides around Vernay: