La Planche des Belles Filles from Plancher-les-Mines

Route overview

This ride suits cyclists prepared for a challenging short climb with steep gradients and varied surfaces.

A steep 8 km climb from Plancher-les-Mines to La Planche des Belles Filles in France.

Starting from Plancher-les-Mines at 491 m elevation, this route leads 8 km uphill to La Planche des Belles Filles at 1142 m. The main climb begins at 1.3 km and covers 6.7 km with an elevation gain of 629 m, featuring an average gradient of 9.4% and a maximum of 19.7%. The route gains 650 m overall, mostly climbing with 91% of the distance ascending and some sections over 10%. The surface is mostly paved (88%) but includes 12% gravel or unpaved sections. The roads used are mainly minor roads (81%), with about 0.9 km on paths and 0.6 km on tracks. There is 4.3 km on the named D 16E road, and 4.7 km on roads with posted limits of 80 km/h or more. Amenities near the start include a bakery, convenience store, and restaurant. Water is available close to the start, and notable stops include Calvaire at 0.9 km, Aire de Mérique picnic site at 3.9 km, and the viewpoint near the summit at 7.8 km. There is a long stretch without café, shop, or water between 1.3 and 8 km.

Highlights

• La Planche des Belles Filles summit at 1142 m
• Average gradient 9.4% over 6.7 km ascent
• Calvaire attraction at 0.9 km
• Aire de Mérique picnic site at 3.9 km

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

34 min

Best months

Jun to Sep — daily highs of 19–24 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 6.7 km with no café, shop or water from 1.3 km
• 4.7 km on roads with 80 km/h or higher speed limits
• 12% gravel or unpaved surface

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.