Clue du Riolan is a balcony road in France
France, europe
10.2 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
# Clue du Riolan: France's Hidden Canyon Gem
Picture this: you're driving through one of France's most breathtaking canyons in the heart of the Alpes-Maritimes. Welcome to Clue du Riolan, a spectacular natural wonder carved by the Riolan River deep into white limestone cliffs in the gorgeous Esteron River Valley, nestled in the southeastern corner of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
The D17 is the tiny thread that winds through this dramatic landscape—and honestly, it's not for the faint of heart. This narrow paved road hugs the canyon walls, with sheer drops protected by modest guardrails. The real kicker? Your vehicle can't exceed 3.5 meters in height, and two regular-sized cars simply cannot pass each other. Seriously. This is one of those routes where you'll want to take your time, use those passing spots wisely, and embrace the adventure.
Stretching 10.2 kilometers (6.3 miles) from La Combe (where it connects to the D2211A) all the way to Roquesteron, this route will test your nerves. Watch out for potential rockslides and be prepared for a handful of unlit tunnels—seriously narrow ones carved right into the rock face. The atmosphere is moody, dramatic, and utterly mesmerizing.
This is the kind of road that makes you feel like you've discovered something truly special. Just go slow, stay alert, and prepare for one unforgettable drive.
Where is it?
Clue du Riolan is a balcony road in France is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 47.2456, 2.7124
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 10.2 km
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 47.2456, 2.7124
Related Roads in europe
hardThe brutally steep (23%) paved road to Bola del Mundo
🇪🇸 Spain
# Bola del Mundo: Spain's Brutal Mountain Challenge Tucked on the border between Madrid and Segovia provinces, Bola del Mundo (literally "Ball of the World") sits pretty at 2,265 meters elevation. But getting to this mountain peak? That's where things get gnarly. The 3.1km road up from Puerto de Navacerrada might not sound long, but don't let that fool you. This fully paved route—roughed-up concrete that was laid down in 2009—is wickedly steep, regularly hitting grades of 23% that'll have your heart pounding. The average climb sits around 11.64%, but it's those brutal ramps that get you: expect a punishing 16% wall just 300 meters in, another nasty one around the 1km mark, and then the real killer—a jaw-dropping 23% segment just 500 meters from the finish. You'll gain 361 meters of elevation in that short stretch, which is no joke. This isn't your casual Sunday drive. The road is typically closed to regular traffic due to its narrowness and extreme steepness, though it opens up during summer months. Winter? Forget about it—snow closures are common. The Vuelta a España caught on to this beast in 2010, and it's been humbling cyclists ever since. Perched at the summit of the western Long Cuerda Larga range in the Sierra de Guadarrama, the peak is bristling with broadcast antennas. Even Alberto Contador, a legend who's won every Grand Tour, called it "very difficult and dangerous," saying it's so brutal he rarely attempts it despite living nearby.
moderateA delightful yet challenging road to Puerto de Piedrasluengas
🇪🇸 Spain
# Puerto de Piedrasluengas Nestled in the Cordillera Cantábrica mountains of northern Spain, Puerto de Piedrasluengas sits at a breezy 1,355 meters (4,445 feet) above sea level in Castile and León. This is the kind of pass that makes you feel like you're on top of the world—literally. The C-627 connects the charming towns of Cervera de Pisuerga and Potes with a fully paved road that stays open year-round (though winter weather can occasionally force brief closures). Fair warning: winters here are seriously intense, with harsh mountain conditions that demand respect. If you're thinking of tackling this beast, know what you're getting into. Starting from Puentenansa, the climb stretches 37.6 km with a brutal 1,193-meter elevation gain. While the average gradient sits at a manageable 3.17%, don't get too comfortable—there are sections that ramp up to a gnarly 10.0% that'll really test your brakes and patience. This pass has earned serious credentials, having been featured in the legendary Spanish Vuelta cycling race. Whether you're a road-trip enthusiast or a cycling fan, Puerto de Piedrasluengas delivers the kind of dramatic mountain scenery and challenging curves that make for unforgettable driving (or pedaling).
moderateDriving the international Heihe-Blagoveshchensk Ice Road
🌍 Russia
Okay, picture this: a road that only exists in winter, connecting China and Russia! We're talking about the Heihe-Blagoveshchensk ice road, a truly unique route that transforms the frozen Amur River into a temporary highway. Starting in Blagoveshchensk, the heart of the Amur Oblast where the Amur and Zeya Rivers meet, this icy path heads north towards Heihe, a bustling city in northern China. Every winter, when the Amur River freezes solid, this incredible road comes to life. It's become a vital trade route, especially for trucks dealing with cargo limitations. This isn't just some small path, though! The ice road spans 614 meters in length and 13 meters wide. What's super interesting is that back in the day, this river was heavily guarded by Chinese and Soviet soldiers. Now? It's a frontline for trade and a symbol of connection. Open for just 60-70 days each winter, the road is supported by floating objects to handle the weight. It can even hold trucks weighing up to 40 tonnes.
hardWhere is Wurzen Pass?
🇦🇹 Austria
Wurzenpass-Korensko Sedlo: high five to this epic mountain pass straddling Austria and Slovenia! You'll find yourself cruising at a cool 1,073m (3,520ft) above sea level, right on the border between Carinthia (Austria) and the Upper Carniola region (Slovenia). This route has been a go-to since way back in the 15th century, with a proper road carved out in 1734. Winding through the Karawanks, part of the Southern Limestone Alps, the B109 Wurzenpass Straße (in Austria) and Slovenian highway No. 201 (in Slovenia) is fully paved. Hold on tight though, this 11.2 km stretch from Radendorf (Austria) to Kranjska Gora (Slovenia) is a rollercoaster of curves and steep climbs, with gradients hitting a max of 18%! And because it's a popular border crossing, especially during summer, expect some company along the way. The views? Totally worth it.