SPdC - Col du Pré de la Dame - SPdC

This road cycling route of approximately 141 km starts in Saint-Privat-de-Champclos and leads through the beautiful region of the Cévennes. The route offers a mix of challenging climbs, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes. With highlights such as the Col du Mas de l'Ayre, Col du Pré de la Dame, and the Col du Grand Châtaignier, this is a tough but unforgettable ride for the experienced cyclist.

The route begins in the quiet village of Saint-Privat-de-Champclos, where you immediately seek out the peaceful roads of the Ardèche. The first kilometers are relatively flat, allowing you to warm up your legs well for the heavier climbs that follow.

After a quiet start, you cycle through the picturesque village of Saint-Sauveur-de-Cruzières towards Saint-Paul-le-Jeune, where you begin to experience the beautiful Ardèchoise landscape. The narrow roads wind through vineyards and small forests, giving you a good impression of the charm of this region.

Next, you pass the imposing Château de Chassagnes, a beautiful castle located on a hill. After a short stop to enjoy the view, you continue your way to Les Vans, a lively village where you can prepare for the first major climb of the day: the Col du Mas de l'Ayre.

Col du Mas de l'Ayre (854 m) from Les Vans

The climb to the Col du Mas de l'Ayre begins just outside Les Vans. This is a long but not too steep climb, ideal for getting into a rhythm. As you climb upwards, you enjoy the views over the rolling hills and forests. Once at the top of the col, the view is spectacular, and you feel the satisfaction of the day's first major effort.

Col du Pré de la Dame (1,450 m)

After descending from the Col du Mas de l'Ayre, you arrive in the village of Villefort, which lies at the foot of the Col du Pré de la Dame. This col is a tough climb with steeper sections but offers breathtaking views of the rugged, green surroundings of the Cévennes along the way. This is a serious test of your climbing abilities, and once at the top, you feel the satisfaction of reaching the summit of one of the highest cols in the region.

After a nice descent, you arrive in Génolhac, a charming village with a rich history. The route continues along L'Homol to the Barrage de Sénéchas, an impressive reservoir surrounded by beautiful scenery. This is an excellent place to catch your breath and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

After the Barrage de Sénéchas, you cycle through the peaceful villages of Peyremale and Bessèges, which are surrounded by vast forests and rivers. This part of the route is mostly flat, allowing you to rest your legs after the efforts of the earlier climbs. You then arrive in Gagnières, where the next climb awaits you.

Col du Grand Châtaignier (553 m)

The Col du Grand Châtaignier is a short but steep climb that takes you through dense chestnut forests. This climb poses the last serious challenge of the day, but it is also one of the most beautiful stretches of the route. The view from the top is phenomenal, with a panorama over the rolling hills of the Ardèche.

After descending from the Col du Grand Châtaignier, you cycle through the village of Saint-André-de-Cruzières and then back to Saint-Sauveur-de-Cruzières. The final kilometers back to Saint-Privat-de-Champclos are relatively flat, allowing you to ride out calmly and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Distance and Difficulty:

Total distance: Approximately 141 km

Difficulty: Hard, with several climbs, including the Col du Mas de l'Ayre, Col du Pré de la Dame, and Col du Grand Châtaignier.

Route Highlights:

Château de Chassagnes: A beautiful castle located on a hill overlooking the valley.

Col du Mas de l'Ayre and Col du Pré de la Dame: Two challenging climbs with breathtaking views.

Barrage de Sénéchas: An impressive reservoir surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Col du Grand Châtaignier: A steep climb through dense chestnut forests with phenomenal views from the top.

Conclusion:

This challenging road cycling route offers a beautiful mix of athletic effort, breathtaking nature, and cultural highlights. With several tough climbs and stunning views, this route is a must for experienced cyclists seeking a hard but unforgettable ride through the Ardèche and the Cévennes.