Best mountain passes around Port are found within a landscape characterized by the Jura mountains, offering routes through forests and valleys. This region provides diverse terrain for outdoor activities, including cycling and hiking. Its passes connect various natural features, making it a destination for exploring mountainous environments.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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A 10 km climb from the small roundabout in Châtillon, it's more like 14 km from the Nantua road or the center of Bellegarde. The gradient is fairly steady, ranging from 5.5% to 7.2%, with about ten small steep sections at +8.5%. Very quiet, with very few cars. The road is generally in good condition, but nothing more. There are some beautiful views along the way.
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The Col de Bérentin connects the Valserine Valley to the Retord Plateau, passing through the beautiful Jura forests. Its ascent is gradual and the road is little traveled.
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Small pass, but no way to drive into the valley on the D39. Road closed. I didn't even try.
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Small, very quiet pass between valleys and forests with very few car passages.
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Second pass for today. Pass elevation 1144 m above sea level. Long climb, basically from Saint Germain to here. A total of about 700 m elevation gain and 12 km. The gradient is only 4-6%, but with 20 kg of luggage, everything is difficult ;) Here, too, the weather was still quite cool in very early April. Partly rain, partly windy.
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Rest after a 12 km climb from Saint-Germain-de-Joux.
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The Col de Matafelon from Thoirette is 3.6 km long with a total drop of 175 m. The average slope is 4.86%. It is part of the Massif du Jura.
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The mountain passes around Port are highly appreciated by the komoot community. Among the most popular are Cuvéry Pass, known for its quiet roads and steady gradients, and Col de Bérentin, which offers a gradual ascent through the beautiful Jura forests.
The Port region is characterized by the Jura mountains, offering diverse terrain through forests and valleys. Passes like Col de Bérentin feature ascents through Jura forests, while Col de Matafelon provides a beautiful descent towards the Ain river, showcasing the varied landscapes.
Yes, for experienced cyclists, Belleroche Pass offers a significant challenge. It's approximately 12 kilometers long with 577 meters of elevation gain and a maximum gradient of 9%. Cuvéry Pass also presents a substantial climb of 14.4 kilometers with an average gradient of 5 to 6%.
If you're looking for quiet roads and scenic routes, Cuvéry Pass is highly recommended, with very few cars. Similarly, Col de Bérentin is known for its minimal traffic and gradual ascent through picturesque Jura forests.
The region around Port's mountain passes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Corlier – Champdor Castle loop' or the 'Saint Martin Church – Col de Colliard pass loop'. There are also running trails, including routes around Lake Nantua, and gravel biking options like the 'Brenod plateau' or the 'Col de Bérentin – Rochette Pass loop'. For more details, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Port, Running Trails around Port, and Gravel biking around Port guides.
Many passes offer beautiful views. For instance, Col de Matafelon provides a beautiful descent towards the Ain river. On Cuvéry Pass, you can enjoy some beautiful views along the way, especially during the 14 km climb.
The gradients vary, offering options for different skill levels. Cuvéry Pass has an average gradient between 5 and 6%, with some steeper sections up to 8.5%. Col de Matafelon has an average slope of 4.86%, while Belleroche Pass can reach a maximum gradient of 9%.
Visitors frequently praise the tranquility and scenic beauty of the passes. Many highlight the quiet roads, making them ideal for cycling, and appreciate the steady, regular climbs. The Jura forests and views over valleys are often mentioned as motivating factors during challenging ascents.
Yes, Belleroche Pass is noted for its calm and very little frequented roads, making it an ideal setting for cycling and wheel-skiing from May until the end of October. Cuvéry Pass is also well-regarded for cycling due to its quiet roads and steady gradients.
While specific cafes directly on every pass are not detailed, Col de Matafelon is mentioned to have a small hotel-restaurant, Au Moulin du Pont, at the pass itself, and a swimming area nearby at Oignin.
Among the listed passes, Belleroche Pass reaches an elevation of 1,056 meters above sea level, making it one of the higher points you can reach by road in the area.


See even more epic mountain passes by checking out these guides around Port: