Col de Furfande

# Col de Furfande: A High-Alpine Adventure

Tucked away in the Hautes-Alpes region of southeastern France, Col de Furfande sits at a respectable 2,500m (8,202ft) above sea level and serves up a proper mountain challenge for those ready to take it on.

Fair warning: this isn't your typical smooth alpine pass. The road to the summit is gravel and rocky, with plenty of bumpy stretches that'll keep you on your toes. It's steep too—no gentle climb here. That said, the track is well-maintained, so at least you're not dealing with complete chaos. Just be prepared for some serious terrain.

Winter essentially closes this route from October through June, so plan your visit for the warmer months when conditions cooperate. Once you make it to the top, there's a small parking area where you can catch your breath and take in the views.

Here's the real talk: this is one for experienced off-road drivers only. If unpaved mountain roads make you nervous, do yourself a favor and pick a different route. The southern section of the summit is closed off anyway, so there's a natural endpoint to your adventure.

If you've got the skills and the nerve, though, Col de Furfande offers genuine alpine adventure in one of France's most dramatic mountain regions. Just come prepared and respect what this pass is asking of you.