Col de la Croix
Jura
Col de la Croix is a mountain pass located in the Jura range of Switzerland at an elevation of 789 meters. It connects the towns of Saint-Ursanne and Courgenay in the canton of Jura. The pass is particularly famous among cycling enthusiasts due to its demanding ascent from Saint-Ursanne, which spans 3.72 kilometers and gains 342 meters in height with an average gradient of 9.1%. Some sections of the climb reach gradients as steep as 17%, especially near the summit. This challenging terrain has made Col de la Croix a notable feature in professional cycling events, including the Tour de France. In the 2012 Tour de France, it was crossed during Stage 8 and classified as a Category 1 climb, with Thibaut Pinot being the first rider to summit before winning the stage. The pass offers picturesque views of the Jura landscape and serves as a popular route for tourists and cyclists alike, combining natural beauty with sporting challenge.
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Tip: For cycling enthusiasts, the best time to visit Col de la Croix is during the warmer months when the pass is free of snow and the roads are dry. Visitors planning to cycle the ascent should prepare for steep gradients and consider training beforehand. It is recommended to check weather conditions in advance and to bring appropriate gear. Tickets or passes are generally not required to access the pass, but visitors should be aware of local traffic regulations. Early morning visits can provide a quieter experience with less traffic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Interesting facts
- •Col de la Croix reaches a maximum gradient of 17% at the summit, making it one of the steeper climbs in the Jura region.
- •It was featured as a Category 1 climb in the 2012 Tour de France, a prestigious classification for difficult ascents.
- •Thibaut Pinot was the first cyclist to summit the Col de la Croix during the 2012 Tour de France stage and went on to win that stage.
History
The Col de la Croix has long served as a mountain pass in the Jura range, facilitating connection between Saint-Ursanne and Courgenay.
Its elevation of 789 meters has made it a strategic route through the region.
In recent decades, it gained prominence in the world of competitive cycling, notably featuring in the 2012 Tour de France as a Category 1 climb.
The pass has retained its importance both as a transport route and a sporting challenge over the years.
Place Guide
Climb from Saint-Ursanne
This 3.72 km ascent gains 342 meters in elevation with an average gradient of 9.1%, featuring steep sections up to 17%. It is a key attraction for cyclists seeking a challenging ride through the Jura mountains.