Mountain passes around Billiat are situated within a region characterized by the Jura mountains and valleys such as the Valserine. This area offers diverse terrain for outdoor activities. The landscape features forests and elevated plateaus, providing varied natural environments. Passes in this region often connect different valleys or plateaus, offering routes through the natural surroundings.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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A 10 km climb from the small roundabout in Châtillon, it's more like 14 km from the Nantua road or the center of Bellegarde. The gradient is fairly steady, ranging from 5.5% to 7.2%, with about ten small steep sections at +8.5%. Very quiet, with very few cars. The road is generally in good condition, but nothing more. There are some beautiful views along the way.
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The Col de Bérentin connects the Valserine Valley to the Retord Plateau, passing through the beautiful Jura forests. Its ascent is gradual and the road is little traveled.
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Small pass, but no way to drive into the valley on the D39. Road closed. I didn't even try.
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Small, very quiet pass between valleys and forests with very few car passages.
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Second pass for today. Pass elevation 1144 m above sea level. Long climb, basically from Saint Germain to here. A total of about 700 m elevation gain and 12 km. The gradient is only 4-6%, but with 20 kg of luggage, everything is difficult ;) Here, too, the weather was still quite cool in very early April. Partly rain, partly windy.
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Rest after a 12 km climb from Saint-Germain-de-Joux.
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Regular climb, on one side or the other. Be careful, however, if you arrive at the top in "limit": there are two "passes" which follow one another in two km, this can give a little blow to morale when the legs respond less well 😉
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Among the most appreciated passes are Cuvéry Pass, known for its 14-kilometer climb from Bellegarde-sur-Valserine with an average gradient of 5-6%, and Col de Richemond (1060 m), which offers a regular climb with similar gradients. Visitors also enjoy Col de Bérentin, which connects the Valserine Valley to the Retord Plateau through Jura forests.
The region is characterized by the Jura mountains and valleys like the Valserine. You'll find diverse terrain including dense forests and elevated plateaus. Passes such as Col de Bérentin offer gradual ascents through beautiful Jura forests, providing scenic views of the natural surroundings.
Yes, passes like Cuvéry Pass feature sections reaching over 8% gradient, making for a challenging ride. The Belleroche Pass also presents a significant challenge, with a 12-kilometer climb gaining 577 meters in elevation and a maximum gradient of 9%.
The area around Billiat offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Retord - Balconies of Mont Blanc Trail' or 'View of Mont Blanc – Beauregard Crest loop'. For cyclists, there are dedicated MTB trails and touring bicycle routes, such as the 'Cuvéry Pass – Cuvery Pass loop' or 'Valserine Gorges – Stone Bridge loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking, MTB, and cycling guides around Billiat.
Yes, Col de Bérentin is noted for its gradual ascent through Jura forests on a road with low traffic. Similarly, the Belleroche Pass is described as a privileged spot with calm and very little frequented roads, ideal for cycling.
Many passes in the Billiat region feature regular climbs with gradients typically between 5 and 6 percent. For instance, Cuvéry Pass and Col de Richemond (1060 m) both have average gradients in this range, though some sections can be steeper, reaching over 8-9% on certain passes like Cuvéry or Belleroche.
Visitors frequently highlight the beautiful natural scenery, the quiet roads ideal for cycling, and the varied terrain suitable for different outdoor activities. The passes are appreciated for their regular climbs and the opportunity to explore the Jura forests and connect different valleys and plateaus.
Yes, Col de Bérentin is a notable example, as it connects the Valserine Valley to the Retord Plateau, offering a scenic route through the region's diverse landscape.
Yes, the Billiat region offers mountain passes that cater to both interests. Many passes provide excellent cycling opportunities with varying gradients, and several also serve as scenic viewpoints, allowing you to enjoy the surrounding Jura mountains and valleys.
Yes, for an easier option, you can consider the 'Cuvéry Pass – View of Mont Blanc loop from Ochiaz' which is rated as easy. This trail is located near Cuvéry Pass. You can find more easy hiking routes in the hiking guide around Billiat.
Col de Richemond is situated at an elevation of 1060 meters above sea level.
The Belleroche Pass is described as a 'nice wild place' with calm and very little frequented roads, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.


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