A curvy scenic road to Col de la Vaccia
France, europe
11.32 km
1,193 m
hard
Year-round
# Col de la Vaccia
Sitting pretty at 1,193 meters (3,914 feet) above sea level in Corse-du-Sud on the island of Corsica, Col de la Vaccia is a stunning mountain pass that'll take your breath away — literally and figuratively. The road to the top, D69, recently got a fresh asphalt makeover and features some seriously steep sections reaching up to 6.1%, so come prepared for a proper workout.
You've got options depending on where you're starting from. The shortest route kicks off from Aullène at just 11.32 km with a 357-meter elevation gain (averaging 3.1%). If you want something more challenging, Olivese offers a 12.6 km climb with a hefty 703 meters of elevation gain — averaging 5.6% and definitely earning its stripes.
Feeling more ambitious? The route from Guitera les Bains stretches 22 km with 766 meters of climbing (3.5% average), while the epic journey from Loreto di Tallano covers 26 km and 918 meters of elevation gain (also 3.5% average). Whatever you choose, you're in for stunning mountain scenery and that satisfying sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit.
The road was upgraded back in 2011, so modern facilities and decent pavement await you on this gorgeous Corsican adventure.
Where is it?
A curvy scenic road to Col de la Vaccia is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.9230, 1.6229
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 11.32 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,193 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.9230, 1.6229
Related Roads in europe
moderateCol de Saint-Alexis: A Scenic Gateway to the Vercors Highlands
🇫🇷 France
# Col de Saint-Alexis Tucked away in the Drôme department of southeastern France, Col de Saint-Alexis sits at 1,222m (4,009ft) and offers a surprisingly chill escape through the heart of the Vercors Regional Natural Park. This limestone massif is famous for its dramatic cliffs and gorges, but this particular pass? It's the laid-back cousin of the region's more notorious white-knuckle climbs. The 7.7km (4.78 miles) route runs straight south to north, connecting Col de Rousset with the charming village of Vassieux-en-Vercors. What makes it special is what it *doesn't* have — no hairpin turns, no cliff-hugging switchbacks, and a wonderfully gentle gradient. The D76 is fully paved and impressively straightforward, making it perfect for when you want to actually enjoy the ride instead of white-knuckling the steering wheel. Cyclists love it as a recovery route between the more brutal climbs nearby. But here's where it gets interesting: Vassieux-en-Vercors isn't just another pretty mountain village. It's a symbol of French Resistance history, and the nearby Mémorial de la Résistance overlooks the plateau with stunning views and a sobering reminder of WWII's impact on this region. Keep in mind that the Vercors doesn't mess around in winter — heavy snowfall is common despite the modest elevation. The D76 stays well-maintained since it's crucial for the cross-country skiing stations, but winter tires or chains are non-negotiable during the cold months if you're planning to tackle this alpine plateau safely.
hardWhere Are Gorges de la Vésubie?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through southeastern France, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, on an 11-mile (18 km) stretch of pure driving bliss between Lantosque and Saint-Martin-du-Var. This isn't just any road; it's carved right into the Gorges de la Vésubie, a canyon sculpted by the Vésubie River itself, a tributary that eventually feeds into the Mediterranean Sea near Nice. The road is paved, but hold on tight because you're hugging towering rock walls and the Vésubie River, with steep cliffs rising dramatically above. There are even some overhanging sections that will give you that extra thrill! The views? Absolutely spectacular. Just be mindful, because this gem is close to some pretty popular spots, so you might find some tourist traffic. Time your adventure right, and you'll have an unforgettable drive.
hardAn iconic road to Col du Grand Colombier in the western Alps
🇫🇷 France
# Col du Grand Colombier Hidden in the Jura Mountains of eastern France, just north of the Alps, Col du Grand Colombier sits at a pretty impressive 1,501 meters (4,925 feet). This scenic pass is tucked away in the Ain department, part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The fully paved D120 road stretches for 30 kilometers (19 miles) running north-south from Culoz, and honestly, you'll barely see another soul out here. The isolation is part of its charm. But here's the thing — this pass is *intense*. We're talking brutal 19% gradients in sections, with relentless hairpin turns that'll keep your hands gripped on the wheel. The toughest stretch? The infamous Lacets du Grand Colombier will test your driving (or cycling) skills big time. It's no wonder the Tour de France made this a Stage 10 feature back in 2012. Push through to the summit and you'll find a generous parking area with absolutely killer views. From up there, you can gaze across the Rhône valley, catch sight of Lac du Bourget, peer into the dramatic Val-de-Fier gorges, and on a clear day, see the distant Alps stretching across the horizon. Completely worth the white-knuckle drive.
hardRoad trip guide: Conquering Col du Lisey
🇫🇷 France
# Col du Lisey Nestled in the Hautes-Pyrénées at a breathtaking 2,086 meters (6,843 feet), Col du Lisey is a high mountain pass that delivers serious adventure vibes. The journey kicks off at the Luz Ardiden ski resort, where you'll trade asphalt for an unpaved mountain track that's honestly perfect for road trippers seeking the road-less-traveled. Here's the real talk: the road is maintained well enough that a regular 2WD with decent clearance can handle it at a leisurely pace when conditions are dry. You'll be cruising on relatively straightforward stretches where washboard ruts and dips won't send you bouncing off into the Pyrenees. But throw in some nasty weather? Yeah, that's when this route transforms into a serious no-go zone. What makes this pass truly legendary is its personality. Expect a white-knuckle parade of hairpin switchbacks, bumpy sections, and blind curves that'll have you gripping the steering wheel with both hands. The mountain doesn't give up its views easily—every sharp turn reveals another stunning vista, but demands your full attention in return. This is the kind of drive that reminds you why you love road tripping in the first place. Just pick a clear day, take it slow, and prepare yourself for some genuinely spectacular Pyrenean scenery.