Where is Col de la Bâthie?

Where is Col de la Bâthie?

France, europe

Length

N/A

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, adventure junkies, let's talk about Col de la Bâthie! You'll find this beauty tucked away in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. We're talking serious elevation here, reaching some pretty dizzying heights above sea level!

Up top, you're rewarded with the Refuge du Plan du Lac—a mountain hut with views that'll make your jaw drop. Prepare to be wowed!

The road itself? Oh, it's a twisty, turny treat, clocking in at totally . Be warned: you'll encounter some seriously narrow bits and super steep climbs along the way, especially on the Route Forestière de la Ravoire.

Heads up for winter travelers, though: at high altitude, this road is not maintained, so plan accordingly.

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Road Details

Country
France
Continent
europe
Difficulty
hard

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