Col de la Croix-Morand
A breathtaking mountain pass offering stunning panoramic views, popular for hiking, cycling, and enjoying local cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, ideal for hiking
Col de la Croix-Morand
Best Time
Clear skies, ideal for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking mountain pass offering stunning panoramic views, popular for hiking, cycling, and enjoying local cuisine.
"The view! 😍 A very pleasant motorcycle route with fantastic views! We were thrilled!"
Pack for all weather 🧥
Mountain weather is unpredictable; bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.
Wear sturdy shoes 👟
Essential for hiking and exploring uneven terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Views
Breathtaking vistas of the Chaîne des Puys and surrounding landscapes. Perfect for photography and soaking in nature's grandeur.
Hiking Trails
Explore diverse trails ranging from gentle strolls to challenging ascents, offering rewarding summit experiences.
Cycle Climbing Route
A popular and scenic challenge for cyclists, with well-maintained roads and incredible scenery along the way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather 🧥
Mountain weather is unpredictable; bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.
Wear sturdy shoes 👟
Essential for hiking and exploring uneven terrain.
Fuel up at the restaurant 🍽️
Enjoy local specialties like truffade with a view.
Capture the views 📸
Bring your camera for stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather 🧥
Mountain weather is unpredictable; bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.
Wear sturdy shoes 👟
Essential for hiking and exploring uneven terrain.
Fuel up at the restaurant 🍽️
Enjoy local specialties like truffade with a view.
Capture the views 📸
Bring your camera for stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning panoramic views from Col de la Croix-Morand, making it a prime spot for photography and enjoying nature. The hiking trails are well-loved, offering rewarding experiences, and the local restaurant is praised for its generous portions of delicious food, especially the truffade. It's a highly recommended destination for scenic drives and outdoor activities.
"Nice"
VIKTOR #
"We arrived at the height of the rush at 12:45; we didn't have to wait long in the solarium, enjoying a small aperitif before being seated. Everything was running smoothly; the servers were friendly; the dishes were explained clearly. The truffade, already a set menu item, is generous, so served in a pan, it's definitely for those with a hearty appetite. A huge plus for the blueberry tart (the dessert of the day), perfectly sweet. The coffee was fantastic. And the view! 😍"
Samantha Poirotte
"A very pleasant motorcycle route with fantastic views! We were thrilled! For hikers, there are plenty of parking spaces and a restaurant."
Andrea Pustlauk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Col de la Croix-Morand is accessible by car via the D978 road. It's a popular route for motorcyclists and cyclists. Ample parking is available near the summit and restaurant.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to travel by car or consider organized tours if available. Check local bus schedules for regional routes that might get you close.
The drive offers fantastic views and is a pleasant motorcycle route. The roads are generally well-maintained, but can be winding as you ascend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access the Col de la Croix-Morand itself. You can drive or hike up freely.
The pass is open year-round, accessible 24/7. However, the restaurant has specific operating hours, typically from late morning to early evening. It's advisable to check their schedule in advance, especially outside peak season.
No, hiking trails are free to access. You can start your hike directly from the parking areas at the pass.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Trails vary in difficulty. For a rewarding experience with spectacular views, consider the hike to the summit of the dome. Many trails offer stunning panoramas of the Chaîne des Puys.
Yes, the area is known to be a spot for paragliding, with people enjoying the strong updrafts and incredible views from above.
Yes, there is a restaurant at the pass that serves meals and drinks. Restrooms are also typically available there.
While not guaranteed, you might encounter local flora and fauna typical of the Auvergne region's mountainous terrain. Keep an eye out for birds of prey soaring overhead.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The truffade is a highly recommended, generous dish served in a pan, perfect for hearty appetites. The blueberry tart is also a popular dessert choice.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are several scenic spots where you can enjoy your own food while taking in the views. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The restaurant typically operates during peak tourist seasons and weekends. It's best to confirm their opening hours directly before your visit, especially if traveling during the off-season or on weekdays.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views of the Chaîne des Puys.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks or wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The summit of the dome offers a spectacular 360-degree view. Various points along the hiking trails and near the restaurant also provide excellent photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery, making it a fun and affordable meal option. The drive to the pass itself can be an adventure, with plenty of opportunities to point out interesting sights. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near any steep drops or on more challenging trails.
🚗 Day-Trippers
🚴 Cyclists and Motorcyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Adventures at Col de la Croix-Morand
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, there are gentler paths that still offer beautiful scenery and a chance to connect with nature. Many visitors enjoy simply exploring the immediate vicinity of the pass, taking in the fresh mountain air and the expansive vistas. Always check the weather forecast before setting out, as conditions can change rapidly at this elevation.
Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for longer hikes. Inform someone of your hiking plans and estimated return time. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching a viewpoint or summit is often described as immense, making the effort well worth it.
Cycling and Motorcycle Routes
Many riders choose to combine a visit to the Col de la Croix-Morand with other scenic routes in the Auvergne region, creating a memorable day trip. The pass is also a convenient stop for a break, with a restaurant available for refreshments and a meal. The spectacular scenery makes it a destination in itself, not just a point on a map.
When planning your ride, be mindful of other road users, especially during peak season. The views are a constant companion, so take your time to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. The feeling of reaching the summit after a challenging climb is often described as exhilarating.
The Restaurant Experience
Beyond the truffade, visitors often praise the desserts, particularly the blueberry tart, for its perfect sweetness. The coffee is also noted as being fantastic. The friendly service and clear explanations of the menu add to the welcoming atmosphere.
Arriving during peak times might mean a short wait, but the solarium offers a pleasant spot to enjoy an aperitif while taking in the scenery. The overall dining experience is consistently described as pleasant and satisfying, making it a recommended stop for anyone visiting the pass.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit