A82 towards Glencoe
Scotland, europe
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N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Scotland, but way off the beaten path. We're talking mind-blowing views that most tourists completely miss. First up is the Bealach na Bà (Pass of the Cattle) in Ross and Cromarty. This baby’s got a serious 1-in-3 climb with hairpin turns and crazy-narrow single-track sections. Trust me, the views of the Applecross Peninsula on the other side are SO worth the white knuckles!
Then there's the A9 from Stirling to Inverness. Some call it the most beautiful A-road *in the world*. Big claim, right? But the scenery… oh man, the scenery! Also, you gotta do the A87, A863 and A850 around Skye. While you’re there, Dunvegan Castle and the Talisker distillery are must-sees.
For a longer trip, try the Inverness to Nairn circular. We're talking two days of pure bliss along the coast near Lossiemouth, then inland through distillery and castle country, culminating in the gorgeous Cairngorms National Park. Pro tip: keep an eye out for Dulsie Bridge off the A939 on the way back to Nairn. So pretty!
Don't forget the iconic Pass of Drumochter in the Highlands, or the wild road out to the Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse on the Kintyre Peninsula. Pack your camera, folks, because these roads are absolutely unforgettable.
Related Roads in europe
hardA steep paved road to Col Tze Core in the Aosta Valley
🇮🇹 Italy
Col Tze Core is a thrilling high-altitude pass tucked away in Italy's Aosta Valley, sitting at a respectable 1,607m (5,272ft) above sea level. Also called Col Zuccore or Tzecore, this gem is hidden in the north-western corner of the country. The 9.4 km (5.84 miles) stretch winds from Strada Regionale 7 near Sommarese all the way up to Orbeillaz, and here's what makes it interesting: while the road is fully paved, it's definitely on the narrow side. You'll encounter some seriously steep sections that'll really test your driving skills—we're talking 15.3% gradients on some of those ramps. It's the kind of road that demands your full attention and respect. The payoff? Once you reach the summit, there's a charming picnic area waiting for you. Perfect spot to catch your breath, soak in the views, and celebrate making it up this challenging Alpine pass.
moderateThe military road to Fort de la Redoute in Savoie
🇫🇷 France
# Fort de la Redoute: A High-Alpine Adventure Perched at a dramatic 2,346 meters (7,696 ft) in the Savoie department of southeastern France, Fort de la Redoute sits near the Italian border in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This isn't just any mountain fort—it's a fascinating relic of European history. The fort's story is wild: originally built by the House of Savoy way back in 1630, it's been passed around more times than a mountain goat changes elevation. The French took control in 1794, renamed it Fort-Libre, then rebuilt it as Redoute-Ruinée in the 1890s. President Félix Faure even stopped by in 1897. Fast forward to WWII, and about 70 French soldiers made a legendary stand here against Italian forces until July 1940. The fort later served as part of the Maginot Line's Alpine defenses and was occupied by the Germans until 1945. **The Road Itself** Want to visit? Get ready for a real adventure. The 8.9-km (5.53-mile) unpaved military track starts and finishes on the paved D1090, and it's only doable in summer months. Winter? Forget about it—snow makes this route completely impassable. Same goes for after heavy rain. You'll need a serious vehicle too: 4x4 or enduro bikes only. But here's the payoff: stunning alpine views and genuinely impressive history waiting at the summit. Just note that the fort itself is off-limits due to structural concerns, but the surrounding area is part of the La Rosière ski zone and popular with hikers and trail enthusiasts.
moderateWhere is Col de l'Iseran?
🇫🇷 France
Col de l'Iseran, sitting pretty at 2,764m (that's over 9,000 feet!) in the French Alps, is a total must-do. You'll find it in the Savoie department, snuggled close to the Italian border as part of the Route des Grandes Alpes. This isn't just another road; it's an experience. Known as the "King of the Alps," it's a wild and epic ride that'll leave you breathless. Think desolate landscapes, rough terrain, and views that stretch forever. The D902 road is fully paved, connecting Val d’Isère to Bonneval-sur-Arc. Keep in mind, though, that this beauty is a summer fling, typically open from May/June to October. Sometimes, they even shut it down to cars and let cyclists have the run of the place! Believe it or not, this route was just a mule path until the 1920s! It took an incredible 34 years to build, finally opening in 1937. Be prepared for a challenging drive, especially on the north side with its tunnels and steep, 12% grades. You'll spot milestones along the way marking your progress (and reminding you just how high you're climbing). Get ready for an unforgettable Alpine adventure!
hardHow long is Grimsel Pass?
🇨🇭 Switzerland
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Switzerland, and you stumble upon Grimsel Pass. This beauty straddles the border between Bern and Valais, clocking in at 23 miles of pure driving bliss. Starting in Gletsch and winding up to Meiringen, this fully paved route is called Grimselstrasse and it connects the Hasli Valley with the Goms district. Historically, this pass has been a hotspot since Roman times, acting as a key trade route. The official road we know today was carved out in 1895. Now, heads up! This high-altitude pass (we're talking 7,100 feet!) is typically snowed in from November to late May/early June. And even when it's open, expect cool to cold temps and potential snow, even in summer. While it's not crazy dangerous, Grimsel Pass is a five-star driving experience. The final push to the summit boasts incredible switchbacks and views. The descent is a bit tighter, demanding your full attention with its narrower road and blind corners. Keep an eye out for traffic! And if you're feeling adventurous, the old road bypasses two tunnels and the old cliff road bypasses three more. But trust me, it’s all worth it. This road is an absolute stunner, meandering past sparkling reservoir lakes with breathtaking views. You'll drive through areas of slate, gneiss, and granite, surrounded by lush vegetation. The climb? Intense! Expect steep sections with gradients hitting 12%. It's a relentless climb, with uneven grading. Finally, treat yourself to a stop at the cozy cafe at the summit. You deserve it!