A fabulous narrow road to the top to Col de l’Hysope
France, europe
26.9 km
1,236 m
hard
Year-round
# Col de l'Hysope
Nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region of southeastern France, Col de l'Hysope sits at a respectable 1,236m (4,055ft) elevation and makes for one seriously thrilling mountain adventure.
The 26.9km (16.71 miles) journey along the D3 road winds its way north-south from Authon down to Champtercier, and let me tell you—this isn't your average Sunday drive. The pavement is solid throughout, but the road is genuinely *narrow*. We're talking white-knuckle narrow with hairpin turns that seem to multiply the higher you climb. The steep sections don't mess around either, with gradients maxing out at a stomach-dropping 14.8%.
Here's the real talk: if tight mountain passes make you nervous, this one's probably not for you. And seriously, you better be comfortable with reversing on a mountainside—because you will need to be. This road demands skill and confidence behind the wheel.
But here's what makes it worth the effort—that summit payoff is absolutely incredible. You'll find a stunning natural viewpoint that'll make every tight turn worth it, plus a little parking spot where you can catch your breath and soak in the views. Welcome to one of the Alps' most rewarding climbs.
Where is it?
A fabulous narrow road to the top to Col de l’Hysope is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.0052, 1.5238
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 26.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,236 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.0052, 1.5238
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