A thrilling (scary) off-road experience to Col de Chérine
France, europe
13.9 km
2,295 m
hard
Year-round
# Col de Chérine
Looking for an adventure that'll test your driving skills? Col de Chérine sits at a jaw-dropping 2,295 meters (7,529 feet) in France's Hautes-Alpes department, right in the heart of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France.
This 13.9 km (8.63 mile) route starting from Vars is definitely not for the faint of heart. The entire road is unpaved and rough as it gets—think bumpy, patched sections and a surface that'll rattle your teeth. Seriously, 4x4 vehicles only here. The road climbs steeply through a series of passes (Clot de l'Alpe, Col de Valbelle, Col du Vallon, and Col de Saluces), twisting through endless hairpins that'll keep you gripping the wheel. Some stretches are washed out and sketchy, with grades hitting 10.5% at their steepest. Oh, and wind? Expect it to be fierce up there.
The payoff? Absolutely spectacular views of the Queyras, Embrunais, and the stunning Pelvoux Massif spreading out before you. Just know that this trail is primarily maintained for ski lift and lodge access, and winter conditions make it completely impassable. Plan your visit for the warmer months if you want to experience this wild alpine ride.
Where is it?
A thrilling (scary) off-road experience to Col de Chérine is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.0359, 2.1767
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 13.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,295 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.0359, 2.1767
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