
An awe-inspiring drive to Col d'Ornon
France, europe
14.42 km
1,360 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the French Dauphiné Alps in Isère, heading for the Col d'Ornon. This baby sits pretty at 1,360m (4,462ft) above sea level and the road, the D526, is a dream. It connects Le Bourg-d'Oisans with La Mure. Think stunning mountain views on a smooth, quiet road that's never too challenging.
Cyclists, take note! This beauty has even featured in the Tour de France. You've got two main ways to tackle it. From Entraigues, it's a 14.42km climb, gaining 563 meters at an average of 3.9%. Or, if you're feeling a bit more spicy, start from La Paute – it's 11.11km, but you'll gain 643 meters at an average of 5.8%. Either way, you’re in for some seriously breathtaking scenery.
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 14.42 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,360 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
hardSaç Dağı Geçidi
🇹🇷 Turkey
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits at the Saç Dağı Geçidi in eastern Turkey! This beauty sits way up high in Ağrı Province, practically waving hello to Iran, at a cool 2,207 meters (7,240 feet) above sea level. The road, known as the D100, is paved, so no need for monster truck tires. You'll find this pass connecting Horasan and Eleşkirt. But don't think it's a leisurely cruise – get ready for some serious climbing and hairpin turns that will test your driving skills! Oh, and a heads up: winter storms can throw a wrench in your plans, so check the weather before you go. The views though? Absolutely worth it. Get your camera ready!
hardWhere is Panarotta Refuge?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: Rifugio Panarotta, a mountain hideaway perched way up high in the Italian Alps. Seriously, we're talking serious elevation here! This climb is a total magnet for cyclists who love a good challenge. You'll find it nestled in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, way up north. It’s right by the old Panarotta chairlift, so you won’t have trouble parking. The road itself? All paved, baby! But don't get complacent. This isn't your average Sunday drive. Expect a rollercoaster of steep sections, hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills, and curves galore. The climb kicks off near Pergine Valsugana, starting at a humble 490m. But hold on tight, because over the next 16.2 km you’ll be gaining some serious altitude. The average gradient is no joke. And those steep parts? Phew! The road really bites halfway up, with some sections hitting double-digit gradients. These killer ramps mostly come in the first half of the climb. Even when you think you're in the clear, the last 2.5km keeps the gradient high. But hey, the views? Totally worth it.
hard7 Critical Factors for Navigating Rural England
🇬🇧 England
Get ready for an epic ride on Winnats Pass! This legendary road is tucked away in the Peak District of England, and it's a short but sweet climb that'll have you on the edge of your seat. We're talking a length of just under 1.5 miles (2.4 km), but don't let that fool you. It packs a punch as it climbs over 650 feet (200 m)! Now, this isn't your average Sunday drive. Winnats Pass is known for its super-narrow lanes, steep gradients, and hairpin turns that demand your full attention. Expect dramatic limestone gorges towering above you, creating a truly awe-inspiring, almost otherworldly experience. But be warned: this road can be a challenge, especially in poor weather. Visibility can drop in an instant, and the tight corners leave little room for error. However, if you're up for the adventure, the stunning views and the thrill of the drive make it all worthwhile. Just remember to take it slow, stay alert, and respect the road. You'll be rewarded with an unforgettable driving experience.
hardVolgograd Bridge is not for the sissies
🌍 Russia
Okay, picture this: you're cruising across the **Volgograd Bridge** in southern Russia, wind whipping through your hair, Volga River sparkling below. This isn't your average overpass, folks. We're talking a mega-structure stretching a whopping 7.1 kilometers! This bridge is a concrete beauty, opened in 2009. But here's the thing: this bridge has a bit of a wild side. Word is, when the wind really picks up, the roadway starts to *dance*. We're talking serious oscillations, with cars getting tossed around! Apparently, during one particularly feisty storm, drivers thought they were experiencing an earthquake. The movement is caused by all sorts of factors. The bridge bounces and screeches, making for an unforgettable experience. So, if you're ever in Volgograd and feeling adventurous, take a drive across this engineering marvel. Just be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride!