A nice paved road to Col de Solaison

A nice paved road to Col de Solaison

France, europe

Length

11 km

Elevation

1,500 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

# Col de Solaison

Tucked away in the heart of Haute-Savoie in the French Alps, Col de Solaison sits pretty at 1,500m elevation, right on the border where France cozies up to both Switzerland and Italy. This is the kind of spot where three countries practically shake hands.

The road up to the summit is fully paved—no gravel nonsense here—but don't let that fool you into thinking it's an easy cruise. Once you get past the initial stretch, the middle 11 kilometers really throw down the gauntlet with a relentless 9% average gradient. It's steep, it's demanding, and it's absolutely exhilarating.

The full climb runs 13.2 kilometers and punches up over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, averaging a solid 8% gradient throughout. Your legs (or your engine, depending on how you're tackling this) will definitely feel it. The good news? There's a restaurant waiting for you at the top, because apparently someone figured climbers deserve a proper reward.

This is one of those passes that looks deceptively civilized on paper—paved all the way, not some sketchy mountain track—but makes you earn every single meter. It's the kind of road that stays with you long after you've descended.

Where is it?

A nice paved road to Col de Solaison is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.8816, 1.7505

Share this road

Road Details

Country
France
Continent
europe
Length
11 km
Max Elevation
1,500 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
46.8816, 1.7505

Related Roads in europe

Where does the Archipelago Ring Road start and end?moderate

Where does the Archipelago Ring Road start and end?

🌍 Finland

Okay, picture this: the Archipelago Ring Road in Southwest Finland. It's a 250-kilometer (155-mile) loop weaving through a bunch of cool islands. Think of it as your coastal road trip dream come true! You can kick off this adventure from pretty much anywhere along the route, hopping in your car, grabbing your bike, or even cruising on a motorcycle. Just remember, you're not just driving; you're also ferry-hopping! There are three main ferries to catch, and most of them are free! You'll only need to pay a small fee for the one between. Don't expect to be alone out there – around 20,000 people make this trip every year. So, what's on the itinerary? You've got about 190 kilometers (118 miles) of roads and 50 kilometers (31 miles) of waterways. And while you *could* rush it in a day, seriously, take your time! Two to three days is the sweet spot. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, tack on a day trip to. Best time to go? Definitely between when the ferries are running daily. You might catch some ferries in early September, but winter? Brrr, better bundle up—or wait for warmer weather!

When was Albergue de San Francisco built?moderate

When was Albergue de San Francisco built?

🇪🇸 Spain

Okay, picture this: you're in Granada, Spain, itching for an adventure. Forget the tourist traps, we're heading to the Albergue de San Francisco, a rustic mountain refuge nestled high up in the Sierra Nevada range! First things first: the "road." Well, it’s more of a rugged dirt track that throws you right into the backcountry. Forget your rental car, unless you've got a serious 4x4 and special permission. This baby is usually blocked off to private vehicles. Most people park at the start and hike or bike in, which is honestly the best way to soak it all in. The track itself is a short and sweet 2.1 km (1.3 miles) from the main road, but don't let the distance fool you! This climb packs a punch. You'll gain some serious elevation, topping out over 2,200 meters. The views? Insane. Think panoramic vistas of the Veleta peak and glacial cirques. Heads up though: winter turns this whole area into a snow globe. From November to late May, the track is usually buried, so snowshoes or skis are your best bet. Even in summer, be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather. Temperatures can drop fast, and the wind can whip across those ridges. Bottom line? This isn't just a drive, it's an experience. You'll need to hike in. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and check the weather forecast. If you're up for a bit of a challenge, the Albergue de San Francisco is your ticket to some serious Spanish mountain magic.

Where is Coll de Bot?hard

Where is Coll de Bot?

🇪🇸 Spain

Coll de Bot is a wicked mountain pass hanging out at a seriously lofty elevation in the wild heart of Catalonia. For mountain road junkies, this lonely stretch of blacktop snaking through Els Ports Natural Park is pure bliss. Expect a non-stop dance with your steering wheel. The countless hairpin turns will keep you working, and maybe a little disoriented — but that’s part of the fun, right? So, where exactly is this driving paradise? West of Tortosa, within the Terra Alta region of northeastern Spain. We're talking about the TV-3301. It stretches from Bot to Horta de Sant Joan, near Prat de Comte. Even though it's paved, this road isn't a Sunday stroll. Seriously sharp switchbacks, steep grades, and drop-offs demand your complete focus. Keep it under 30km/h, and if you're rolling in something longer than 12 meters, turn back now. Oh, and there’s a super-narrow, dark, one-way tunnel to navigate. Most days, you'll find yourself all alone out there, just you and the twisties. Speaking of steep, nestled in these mountains, Coll de Bot brings some serious elevation changes. Be ready for grades pushing 10%.

Road trip guide: Conquering Námaskarð Passhard

Road trip guide: Conquering Námaskarð Pass

🇮🇸 Iceland

Okay, adventurers, buckle up for a seriously unique drive through Iceland's Námaskarð mountain pass! Up here at 409 meters (1,341 feet), you'll feel like you've landed on Mars. Seriously, the sulfuric landscape is totally otherworldly. You'll be cruising on Route 1, Iceland's famous Ring Road, so the surface is paved. Don't let that fool you, though—this road throws a few curveballs with its twists, turns, and narrow sections. Newbies might want to avoid driving at night or when the visibility dips. While you're taking in the sights, remember to keep your hands to yourself when it comes to the water...it's probably boiling hot!