An Awe-Inspiring Paved Road to Costalunga Pass
Italy, europe
23 km
1,745 m
hard
Year-round
# Passo di Costalunga: A Alpine Adventure in South Tyrol
Ready for some serious mountain scenery? Head to Passo di Costalunga (also called Karerpass) in Italy's South Tyrol region, sitting pretty at 1,745m (5,725ft) above sea level. This isn't your typical pointy peak—the summit spreads out like a plateau, which means you get almost a full 360° view of some seriously impressive mountains: the Ortler, the Cevedale massif, and the Adige Valley stretching below.
The 23km (14-mile) route runs west-east from Ponte Nova to Vigo di Fassa, and while it's fully paved and well-maintained, don't let that fool you. This is a legit driving challenge with narrow sections, countless hairpin turns, and steep slopes that hit gradients up to 11%—demanding enough that it's been featured in the Giro d'Italia cycling race.
At the summit, you'll find everything you need to break up the drive: cozy hotels, restaurants serving up authentic Alpine fare, souvenir shops, and even a farmer renting horses if you fancy a different kind of adventure. Whether you're a seasoned mountain driver or just looking for stunning views with a side of adrenaline, Passo di Costalunga delivers both in spades.
Where is it?
An Awe-Inspiring Paved Road to Costalunga Pass is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.2866, 12.8251
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 23 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,745 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 42.2866, 12.8251
Related Roads in europe
extremeDriving to Kistefjell: One of the Gnarliest Roads in Norway
🇳🇴 Norway
# Kistefjell: Norway's Peak with a View Kistefjell is a 1,001-meter (3,284ft) mountain peak that stands out in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway—mainly because of the massive TV mast planted right on top. Nestled between Gisundet to the west and Rossfjordvatnet to the east, this summit has some serious broadcasting credentials. That iconic 78-meter-high transmitter—nicknamed Tårnet på Kistefjell—is basically the mountain's claim to fame. Originally standing at 60 meters, it got a growth spurt in summer 2008 when they extended it to 78 meters for the digital TV network rollout. Since 1964, it's been pumping out FM radio signals, and TV broadcasts started flowing in 1966. The mast is visible for miles around and even hosts one of the Norwegian Meteorological Institute's weather stations. Now, here's where things get real: the road to the summit is no leisurely drive. Built back in the 1960s, this entirely unpaved route climbs a punishing 8.9 km (5.53 miles) from the paved Fv86, gaining 988 meters of elevation with an average gradient of 11.10%. You'll need serious 4x4 credentials and nerves of steel to tackle this beast. The weather up here is absolutely brutal, especially in winter. Ice and heavy snow can make the road impassable without warning, and conditions can shut things down at any moment. Seriously, don't attempt this in winter unless you've got genuine mountain driving experience and a death wish.
moderateHoya de la Mora: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
🇪🇸 Spain
# Hoya de la Mora: Spain's Alpine Adventure Ready to tackle one of Europe's most thrilling drives? Hoya de la Mora sits pretty at 2,550m (8,366ft) above sea level in Granada's stunning Sierra Nevada Park, making it one of Spain's highest roads and a serious bucket-list destination for road trippers. This isn't just any mountain drive—it's the gateway to Pico del Veleta, Europe's highest paved road. Starting from Collado de las Sabinas on the A-4025, the A395 winds its way up for just 5.1 km (3.16 miles) of pure adrenaline. Don't let the short distance fool you though: you're looking at a relentless climb with 340 meters of elevation gain and an average gradient of 6.66%. It's steep, it's intense, and it's absolutely worth it. Once you reach the summit, you'll find the Refugio Militar Capitan Cobo offering shelter and sustenance, plus bars and restaurants to celebrate your conquest. There's even a spacious parking lot where you can catch your breath and soak in the incredible views of the northwestern Sierra Nevada. If you're craving mountain roads with serious altitude and stunning Andalusian scenery, this northwestern stretch of the Sierra Nevada delivers on all fronts. Just make sure your vehicle (and your nerves) are ready for the climb!
hardWhere is Devil’s Throat Cave in Bulgaria?
🌍 Bulgaria
Cruising through the Smolyan Province of Bulgaria? You HAVE to check out the road through Trigrad Gorge! It's absolutely breathtaking, especially as it leads to the legendary Devil's Throat Cave. This natural wonder is nestled high in the Rhodope Mountains, practically kissing the Greek border. Legend has it that Orpheus himself used this route to venture into the underworld! The road itself? A wild ride! It’s paved, sure, but think narrow and winding. Picture this: you're hugging the curves, the Trigrad river burbling alongside you, and towering cliffs of up to 250 meters on either side. The river actually vanishes into the Devil's Throat Cave (said to resemble a devil’s head with a waterfall for a throat!), only to reappear further down as a massive spring. Seriously epic. This 10.6 km (6.58 miles) stretch from Teshel to Trigrad isn't for the faint of heart. The views are unreal – rocky shores, vertical walls of marble, and a sliver of sky above. But you’ll definitely need your wits about you! It takes about 20-30 minutes to drive without stopping. With tunnels, blind corners, and other cars trying to squeeze past. Seriously, bring your patience and your best driving skills. The best time to go? Summer is fantastic, with the elevation keeping things nice and cool (around 1200 meters!). Winter can bring snow, but the area is generally accessible year-round. July and August are peak season, so be prepared for company! Devil's Throat Cave itself, with its incredible 42-meter underground waterfall, is worth the effort. Trust me, this is one road trip you won't forget!
hardIs Coll d'Ordino in Andorra paved?
🌍 Andorra
Okay, picture this: you're in Andorra, cruising along the CS-240, also known as Carretera del Coll d’Ordino. This fully paved road snakes up to 1,981m (6,499ft), right on the border between Ordino and Canillo. The views? Stunning. The drive? Not for the faint of heart! We're talking 18.8 km (11.68 miles) of pure adrenaline, with 17 hairpin turns that'll test your skills. Expect steep climbs – some sections hit an 8.5% gradient. Oh, and keep an eye out for potential rock slides! The climb has even been featured in major cycling races! Starting from Canillo, it's a 9 km ascent, gaining 439 meters. From Ordino, it’s a bit tougher: 10 km, climbing 691 meters. Once you reach the top, there's a small parking lot to soak it all in. Trust me, the panoramic views are worth the white knuckles!