Col de Manse Gap
A scenic mountain pass in France, known for its winding roads, historic Refuge Napoleon, and beautiful valley views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Birdwatching opportunities
Col de Manse Gap
Best Time
Birdwatching opportunities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic mountain pass in France, known for its winding roads, historic Refuge Napoleon, and beautiful valley views.
"Recommended for those who love traveling around France on secondary roads, both by bike and motorbike."
🚗 Drive with Caution
Roads are narrow with hairpins. Excellent asphalt, but be mindful of bends and other users. 🏍️
🅿️ Park Respectfully
Stop for photos, but don't block local traffic. Enjoy the scenery without inconveniencing residents. :camerawithflash:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.4 · 23 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Refuge Napoleon
Summit
Historic refuge offering a glimpse into the past, perched at the pass's highest point.
Panoramic Valley Views
Various viewpoints along the pass
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valley, perfect for photo opportunities.
Wildlife Spotting
Meadows near the pass
Keep an eye out for nesting birds like the Red-backed Shrike in spring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Conditions & Timing
Scenic Drive Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
Roads are narrow with hairpins. Excellent asphalt, but be mindful of bends and other users. 🏍️
🅿️ Park Respectfully
Stop for photos, but don't block local traffic. Enjoy the scenery without inconveniencing residents. :camerawithflash:
🐑 Watch for Sheep
You might encounter sheep on the road, especially during certain times of day. 🐑
☀️ Seasonal Weather
Expect cold in winter, fog in fall, and heat in summer. Dress accordingly. ☁️
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
Roads are narrow with hairpins. Excellent asphalt, but be mindful of bends and other users. 🏍️
🅿️ Park Respectfully
Stop for photos, but don't block local traffic. Enjoy the scenery without inconveniencing residents. :camerawithflash:
🐑 Watch for Sheep
You might encounter sheep on the road, especially during certain times of day. 🐑
☀️ Seasonal Weather
Expect cold in winter, fog in fall, and heat in summer. Dress accordingly. ☁️
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Col de Manse is appreciated for its scenic beauty and suitability for relaxed drives, particularly by motorcyclists and cyclists. While the road conditions are good, its narrowness and hairpin turns require careful navigation. Some visitors find it 'not exciting' but recommend it for its picturesque valley views and the historic Refuge Napoleon.
"Small hill above Gap, recommended for those who love traveling around France on secondary roads, both by bike and motorbike."
M0e_s Mob
"Not exciting"
Emilio Bernasconi
"I only gave 4 stars because as a motorcyclist I can say that the road is a little narrow ......
The asphalt is excellent and it is a very busy route......
Excellent I recommend it"
ivan gazzola
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Col de Manse is easily accessible from Gap via secondary roads. The drive offers scenic views and is popular with motorcyclists and cyclists exploring the region. Be prepared for narrow sections and hairpin turns.
While the asphalt is excellent, the road is described as narrow with many bends and hairpins, which can be challenging for some drivers, especially motorcyclists. Drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings.
Yes, Col de Manse is a popular route for cyclists. The secondary roads offer a scenic journey, but be prepared for the inclines and winding paths.
Many visitors recommend it as a scenic drive, perfect for those who enjoy exploring France on secondary roads by bike or motorbike. Take your time to enjoy the valley views.
Col de Manse is often part of a larger scenic route when traveling to or from Gap. It's a good stop to break up a longer journey and enjoy the landscape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Col de Manse is a natural pass and a public road, so there is no entrance fee to access it or drive through.
As a public road, Col de Manse is accessible at all times. However, weather conditions can affect road safety, especially in winter and fall.
No, no booking is required. It's a scenic route that you can visit spontaneously. Just be mindful of local traffic and parking etiquette.
While there are no official restrictions, visitors are advised to drive cautiously due to the narrow and winding roads. Respect local residents and avoid blocking traffic.
Due to the narrowness and hairpin bends, large vehicles might find it challenging. It's generally better suited for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for pull-offs that offer panoramic views of the valley. The summit near the Refuge Napoleon also provides a great backdrop for photos.
Landscape photography is ideal, capturing the winding roads, the valley, and the natural scenery. Wildlife photography is also possible, especially in spring.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful atmospheric shots, especially with potential fog in fall. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Yes, if you encounter sheep, they can make for charming subjects in your photos, but always maintain a safe distance and respect their space.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit