A memorable road trip to Collet du Plan Nicolas
France, europe
N/A
2,406 m
moderate
Year-round
# Collet du Plan Nicolas: A High Alpine Adventure
Perched at a breathtaking 2,406 meters (7,893 feet) above sea level, Collet du Plan Nicolas is a stunning mountain pass tucked away in the Savoie department of the Rhône-Alpes region in southeastern France. This is seriously high-altitude territory, and the views are absolutely worth the drive.
The good news? The entire route up to the summit is beautifully paved, making it accessible for most drivers. You'll be cruising up the D902, which winds its way through some spectacular alpine scenery. Just keep in mind that this pass is strictly a summer-season destination—it shuts down completely during winter months when snow and ice make the roads impassable.
The easiest approach is from Saint Michel de Maurienne, where you can begin your ascent into the mountains. As you climb higher, you'll experience that magical transition from lower valleys into proper alpine terrain, with increasingly dramatic views the further you go. Whether you're a keen driver looking for a scenic challenge or simply want to experience the majesty of the French Alps, this mountain pass delivers the goods.
Where is it?
A memorable road trip to Collet du Plan Nicolas is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.6287, 2.6886
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,406 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.6287, 2.6886
Related Roads in europe
extremeWhere is Çukuryurt Geçidi?
🇹🇷 Turkey
Okay, picture this: you're in West Anatolia, Turkey, ready for an adventure. You're headed to Çukuryurt Geçidi, a mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,931m (6,335ft) high in Konya Province. The road? It's called Taşkent Yolu, and it's paved, but let's be real, Mother Nature has had her way with it. Expect some rough patches and loose gravel to keep things interesting. This 12.7 km (7.89 miles) stretch runs between Çamiçi and Kizilçayiryaylalari and is not for the faint of heart. We're talking narrow sections, seriously steep climbs (up to 11%!), and those "don't look down" drop-offs. But hey, with great risk comes great reward, right? The views are absolutely killer! The pass is usually open year-round, but winter can throw a wrench in things with unpredictable weather. So, keep an eye on the forecast, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for some incredible scenery!
hardA gravel road to the virgin Verodal beach in Canary Islands
🇪🇸 Spain
Alright, adventurers, listen up! Ever dreamt of escaping to the edge of the world? Then picture this: El Hierro, the tiniest, most remote Canary Island, chilling in the Atlantic off the African coast. Here, you'll find Playa del Verodal, a beach with sand the color of fire. Getting there is half the fun! The road to this almost-untouched paradise is a 1.2 km (0.74 mile) unpaved beauty that begins after the popular road to Pico Faeda. Be warned, though – it's a bit of a squeeze, especially during peak season when everyone's chasing that volcanic sunset. But trust me, the drive is SO worth it. Imagine winding through a landscape sculpted by volcanoes, with views that'll blow your mind. Just keep an eye out for potential closures due to volcanic activity. And while you're there, admire the powerful sea from afar – swimming isn't really recommended due to the wild waves and strong currents.
easyWhere’s Col du Galibier?
🇫🇷 France
Wanna tackle a real beast of a climb in the French Alps? Then Col du Galibier needs to be on your list! This legendary pass, clocking in at a whopping 2,645m (8,678 ft), is a must-do for any serious road tripper. You'll find this beauty near Grenoble, straddling the Hautes-Alpes and Savoie departments in southeastern France. Get ready for a 43.3 km (27 miles) stretch of pure driving bliss (and maybe a little agony!). The D902 road winds its way from Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne to the D1091, topping out as one of the highest passes in France. Is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are simply breathtaking, both on the way up and on the descent. At the summit, you're treated to stunning scenery, with viewpoints offering glimpses of iconic peaks like Meije, Grand Galibier, and even Mont Blanc. Plus, you can grab a bite and a coffee at the top – because you'll definitely deserve it! Now, don't think this is going to be a leisurely Sunday drive. The road is part of the Route des Grandes Alpes, and it throws some serious challenges your way. Expect hairpin turns, steep inclines reaching a maximum gradient of 13.1%, and the added fun of altitude sickness kicking in above 2000m. This climb demands respect. Keep in mind, this high-altitude pass is usually only open from June 1st to October 31st, depending on the snow. So, plan your trip accordingly! Fun fact: The road was originally built in 1876 for military purposes, but it gained fame as a key stage in the Tour de France. It's a place steeped in cycling history!
hardStockji
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Stockji: Switzerland's Ultimate Alpine Challenge Ready for an adrenaline rush? Stockji is a beast of a mountain peak sitting pretty at 2,539 meters (8,330 feet) in the Goms district of Valais, Switzerland. This summit in the Lepontine Alps is definitely not your average Sunday drive. The road itself? Think rocky, gravelly, and unforgiving. We're talking slopes steeper than 30% that get progressively rockier and more treacherous as you climb higher. Loose stones are basically the welcome committee up here, and the wind? It's relentless—howling year-round with particular fury at altitude. Even summer visitors should pack layers; snow isn't uncommon, and winter temperatures are absolutely brutal. Here's the real talk: this route has an extremely narrow window of opportunity. You're looking at maybe late August if you're lucky. The conditions are just too gnarly any other time of year. This isn't a road for the faint-hearted or unpaved-mountain-road-phobic. If hairpin turns and loose gravel make you nervous, Stockji will definitely test your limits. But if you're an experienced off-road driver looking for an epic Alpine challenge? This Swiss gem delivers an unforgettable adventure.