Navigating the Road to Col d'Espreaux: Twists and Turns in the Alps
Col d'Espréaux is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.160m (3,805ft) above the sea level, located in the Hautes-Alpes department, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France.
Is Col d'Espréaux in the Alps paved?
Tucked away in the southeastern part of the country, the road to the summit is called D20, aka Col d'Espréaux road. Though fully paved, travelers should tread with caution. The road surface, marred by loose gravel, poses significant challenges, especially during descents. The path is not only steep, boasting a maximum gradient of 9.1% at certain stretches, but also quite narrow.
Location and Connections
Positioned in the southeastern sector of France, within the Alpes du Sud, Col d'Espréaux serves as a vital connector between the Buëch and Durance valleys.
How long is Col d'Espréaux in the Alps?
Spanning a distance of 13.0 km (8.07 miles), the pass runs from Châteauneuf-d'Oze in the north to Barcillonnette in the south. Notably, Col d'Espréaux has marked its presence in the realm of sports, having been a part of the iconic Tour de France race and the Monte-Carlo Historic Rally. It's particularly significant for the Monte-Carlo rally participants, who, during a special stage, traverse both this pass and the neighboring Col de Faye.