Alpe Galm, One of the Hardest Roads of the Alps

Alpe Galm, One of the Hardest Roads of the Alps

Switzerland, europe

Length

10.7 km

Elevation

2,231 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

# Alpe Galm: A Breathtaking Alpine Challenge

Nestled in Switzerland's Valais region, Alpe Galm rises to a stunning 2,231 meters (7,319 ft) above sea level. At the summit, you'll find a handful of charming houses and the adorable Galm Chapel, originally built way back in 1681. This tiny religious gem, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, showcases the humble faith of centuries past and has been lovingly restored over the years.

Here's where things get real: the road to the top is mostly paved (except the final 1.5 km of gravel), but it's narrow and brutally steep—we're talking sections exceeding 12% gradient. The good news? During summer, most regular cars can handle it. Plus, you'll find what might be Central Europe's highest roundabout up there, which is pretty cool.

This is legitimately one of the Alps' toughest climbs. Starting from Guttet-Feschel, the 10.7 km (6.6-mile) push gains a whopping 1,001 meters of elevation. The average grade sits at 9.35%, but brace yourself for some stretches hitting 14%—that's serious business.

What makes it worth the effort? The entire route wraps you in stunning alpine pastures and passes through quaint mountain villages. As you climb, the valley and surrounding peaks unfold beneath you in increasingly spectacular views. It's tough, it's thrilling, and it's absolutely unforgettable.

Where is it?

Alpe Galm, One of the Hardest Roads of the Alps is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 47.1481, 7.9348

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Switzerland
Continent
europe
Length
10.7 km
Max Elevation
2,231 m
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
47.1481, 7.9348

Related Roads in europe

How long is Carretera de las Presas?extreme

How long is Carretera de las Presas?

🇪🇸 Spain

Okay, buckle up for the Carretera de las Presas (GC-605) on Gran Canaria! This mountain road in the southwest of the island is a real stunner, but definitely keeps you on your toes. Stretching for about 23 kilometers (14.5 miles), you'll climb from the little town of Pie de la Cuesta (325m above sea level) all the way up to Ayacata (1,304m), a cute village where you can grab a bite. That's almost a kilometer of vertical gain! The journey starts with an epic series of hairpin bends winding up the Mogan Valley, past ochre cliffs and massive boulders. Expect a challenging drive. The pavement can be a bit rough in spots, especially the last 8 kilometers, and some sections are so narrow that passing another car can be tricky. We're talking 30+ hairpin turns, with gradients hitting 10% in places. This route takes you straight to the mysterious Las Niñas reservoir, one of the island's largest. Legend has it that a nearby, ancient pine tree witnessed a woman being burned to death centuries ago. Is it worth the drive? Absolutely! The scenery is incredible. However, be aware that this route is prone to landslides, rockfalls, and fog. Keep an eye out for viewpoints with parking spots along the way, but remember it can get very cold and windy up there!

A wild drive to Brokartindur through Vatnajokull Glaciermoderate

A wild drive to Brokartindur through Vatnajokull Glacier

🇮🇸 Iceland

Okay, adventure awaits in the southeastern reaches of Iceland, deep inside the epic Vatnajökull National Park! We're talking about Brókartindur peak, and getting to the top is no Sunday drive. Forget your rental sedan; you'll need a seriously beefed-up 4x4 and a guide, as private vehicles are a no-go. The road snakes through Vatnajökull Glacier itself – a colossal ice cap covering about 10% of Iceland. Just to put things in perspective, the ice averages over 1200 feet thick in this region, and is up to 3000 feet thick in places. From Reykjavik, you're looking at a 200-mile haul to reach the park's edge, clocking in at a 4-7 hour drive (weather depending, of course). Expect year-round snow, isolation, and views that will absolutely blow your mind. This area is so dramatic, it's been the backdrop for tons of movies and shows like Batman Begins and Game of Thrones! As you climb, the scenery just keeps getting better, culminating in panoramic vistas of the glacier. From the top, you can soak in the majestic sight of Þvetártindsegg, the highest mountain in Suðursveit. Trust me, this off-the-beaten-path adventure is pure Icelandic magic.

How to drive the Lofoten National Tourist Route on the Lofoten Islands?moderate

How to drive the Lofoten National Tourist Route on the Lofoten Islands?

🇳🇴 Norway

# The Lofoten National Tourist Route: Norway's Arctic Gem Ready for one of Norway's most jaw-dropping road trips? Head to the Lofoten Islands, sitting pretty above the Arctic Circle, and buckle up for the Lofoten National Tourist Route. This 230km (142 miles) stretch of the E10 is pure magic on wheels. Starting at the Raftsundet bridge in the north and finishing at the charming village of Å in the south, this route winds through Nordland County in northwestern Norway. Most of the drive is paved, though you'll encounter some pleasantly narrow sections that keep things interesting. What makes this drive absolutely unforgettable? The coastal scenery is next-level stunning. Expect dramatic mountain vistas, serpentine roads hugging the coastline, and tunnels that suddenly open up to breathtaking panoramas. Seriously, bring a good camera – you'll want to capture every moment. **The Details:** - **Roads:** E10, plus routes 807, 811, 825, 992, and 994 - **Length:** 230km - **Highest elevation:** 59m - **Ferries:** None needed - **Winter:** The route stays open year-round, though bad weather can cause brief closures during winter months This is the kind of road trip that belongs on every driving enthusiast's bucket list. The combination of Arctic beauty, twisting roads, and coastal magic makes it an experience you'll be talking about for years.

Where is Forcella di Monte Rest?moderate

Where is Forcella di Monte Rest?

🇮🇹 Italy

Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! Let's talk about Forcella di Monte Rest, a seriously stunning mountain pass nestled in the Province of Pordenone, Italy. You'll find this beauty in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, in the northeastern part of the country. What's it like? Think paved perfection...but with a twist! This scenic route, also known as Strada Regionale 552 del Passo Rest, is delightfully narrow. We're talking about a 25.6 km (15.90 miles) adventure, winding from Priuso to Tramonti di Sopra. Now, don't let the "paved" part fool you – this climb is no joke! It's been featured in races for a reason! Get ready for some seriously steep sections, hitting a maximum gradient of 10.6% in places. Starting from, you'll be climbing for, with an elevation gain of. That's an average gradient of! And remember to watch out for potential hazards. But, trust me, the views? Totally worth it. Get ready for some unforgettable Italian scenery!