A memorable road trip to Puerto de Somiedo
Spain, europe
19.8 km
1,485 m
moderate
Year-round
# Puerto de Somiedo
Nestled high in Spain's stunning Cordillera Cantábrica mountain range, Puerto de Somiedo sits at a breathtaking 1,485 meters (4,872 feet) above sea level. This gorgeous pass cuts right through the heart of Somiedo Natural Park and serves as the gateway between Asturias and Castilla y León.
The fully paved AS-227 road is your ticket to alpine adventure. Starting from La Riera, you're looking at a solid 19.8km climb that'll gain you nearly 1,000 meters of elevation—with an average gradient of just over 5%, it's challenging but totally doable for most drivers. The scenery? Absolutely spectacular as you wind your way up through this protected natural area.
You can typically tackle this pass year-round, though winter sometimes throws a curveball with occasional closures when conditions get gnarly. Come prepared for mountain weather, and you'll have an unforgettable drive through one of northern Spain's most dramatic landscapes.
Where is it?
A memorable road trip to Puerto de Somiedo is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 40.6649, -3.8748
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 19.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,485 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 40.6649, -3.8748
Related Roads in europe
moderateHow to Cross Rivers in Iceland with a 4x4
🇮🇸 Iceland
Okay, so you're thinking about tackling Iceland's F-roads? Epic choice! These are the unpaved mountain routes that lead into the highlands, and they are seriously rugged. Think rocky tracks, river crossings, and total isolation. Here's the deal: these roads are ONLY open in summer, and ONLY for 4x4 vehicles. Seriously, your regular rental car isn't going to cut it, and even if you try, you won't be insured. River crossings are the biggest challenge. You need a 4x4 with serious clearance, plus some experience with fording. Always get out and scout the river first – check depth, current, and the riverbed itself. If the water's above your knees, don't even think about it. Look for wide, shallow spots, and if another vehicle goes through, watch how they do it. But a huge word of caution: river conditions change FAST, especially after rain or glacier melt. What's safe in the morning can be a raging torrent in the afternoon! Don't go it alone, and NEVER cross glacial rivers without expert help. Check the weather and road conditions religiously. When you do cross, use low gear, go slow (around 5 km/h), and keep a steady speed. Don't change gears mid-crossing. Angle slightly downstream to follow the current, and don't stop! If you stall, resist the urge to restart. Water might be in the engine. If you get properly stuck, call 112. Try to travel with another vehicle – safety in numbers! Tell someone your route, as many areas have zero cell service. And, of course, pack warm clothes, food, water, and an emergency kit. These roads are stunningly beautiful, but they demand respect and preparation!
hardA memorable road trip to Gap of Dunloe in Kerry
🌍 Ireland
The Gap of Dunloe in County Kerry, Ireland, is a mountain pass that’s not for the faint of heart! Perched at 246m (807ft) above sea level, this scenic route might churn the stomach of those prone to car sickness, or those uncomfortable with narrow mountain roads. Stretching 9.6 km (5.96 miles) from Dunloe to Hollywood in the southwest, the paved road is...let's just say it's showing its age. Be prepared for a white-knuckle drive along single-track roads with hairpin bends and bridges that feel barely wide enough. Nestled between two majestic mountain ranges, the road isn’t forgiving, with steep sections hitting a 19% gradient! Passing other vehicles can be a real challenge, and you'll likely find yourself sharing the road with horse-drawn traps. Traffic jams involving cars and horses are surprisingly common. Larger vehicles should think twice before attempting this route. If you're a nervous driver or unaccustomed to extremely narrow roads, you might find it hard to appreciate the scenery. Cyclists, be warned, there have been accidents. The Gap of Dunloe is a major tourist hotspot, especially in summer, thanks to its location among Ireland's highest peaks. Consider leaving the driving to the locals – you'll enjoy the views far more without the stress! Five stunning lakes dot the landscape within The Gap. Daytime drives are possible but not recommended, as the area teems with walkers, cyclists, and those iconic jaunting cars. The Gap of Dunloe is a highlight of the Ring of Kerry, a world-renowned scenic drive loved by locals and tourists alike.
extremeWhat’s the Bosnian Former Eastern Railway?
🌍 Bosnia
Okay, picture this: you're just southeast of Sarajevo, Bosnia, itching for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Forget the highway; you're on the old Bosnian Eastern Railway. What was once a railway is now a rugged gravel track snaking its way toward Pale. This isn't your Sunday drive. We're talking 99 tunnels, each with its own personality! Some are short, some long (up to 240m!), but all are dark and echo-y. Tunnel #5? Super dark and curved, adding a thrill to the experience. Keep an eye out for the rusted remains of old signage near Tunnel #6. The terrain is insane! Between Tunnels #6 and #7, it's a sheer drop-off. You're literally driving on a retaining wall clinging to the side of a cliff! Tunnel #7 is a highlight, carved right through exposed rock. Then there's Tunnel #11, which is like driving through a raw rock opening, completely wild. Heads up: Tunnel #12 is the big one—it's a whopping 852 meters long with curves. It's now part of the motorway and used for one-way traffic. Get ready for total darkness as there's no lighting inside. So, if you're craving a unique, slightly crazy road trip through history and unbelievable landscapes, this former railway line needs to be on your list! Just be prepared for gravel, tunnels, and a whole lot of "wow" moments.
hardGreitspitz
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Greitspitz: A Thrilling Alpine Challenge Looking for an adventure that'll get your heart pumping? Greitspitz (also called Greitspitze) sits at a serious 2,876 meters (9,435 feet) right on the Switzerland-Austria border in the Samnaun Alps. This isn't your typical Sunday drive—it's one of the country's highest road experiences. The route to the summit is pure alpine grit: rocky, gravelly terrain that's accessed via chairlift trail. Think steep doesn't even begin to cover it—we're talking slopes exceeding 30% with loose stones scattered everywhere. The upper sections get progressively rockier and steeper, adding to the challenge. And that's just the physical terrain. Mother Nature throws her own curveballs up here. Wind is basically a permanent feature, howling year-round with particular intensity. Even summer days can surprise you with snow, and winter? Brutally, painfully cold. Realistically, you're looking at a pretty narrow window to tackle this—late August is your sweet spot for summer attempts. Here's the honest truth: this trail demands serious respect. If unpaved mountain roads aren't your comfort zone, this isn't the place to learn. You need genuine experience navigating technical, loose terrain at altitude. But if you're up for the challenge? You're in for spectacular alpine scenery and bragging rights that'll last a lifetime.