
Col de l'Arpettaz: If you like hairpin turns, this is the road for you
France, europe
27.4 km
1,581 m
moderate
Year-round
# Col de l'Arpettaz
Tucked away in the Savoie department of southeastern France, Col de l'Arpettaz sits at 1,581 meters (5,187 feet) and offers one seriously epic driving experience. This hidden gem connects Ugine to Notre-Dame-de-Bellecombe across 27.4 kilometers of pure mountain magic.
Fair warning: the asphalt here is a bit rough around the edges, but that only adds to the adventure. What really makes this pass special? Over 60 hairpin turns that'll keep you grinning the whole way up. Seriously鈥攊f you're a hairpin enthusiast, this is basically the climb of your dreams. You'll navigate through charming alpine farms and lush deciduous forest on what feels like a secret, barely-traveled road.
Pack your patience for some steep sections hitting 11% gradient, but the quiet road and stunning scenery make every twist and turn worth it. Once you reach the summit, the Refuge Auberge du Col de l'Arpettaz is right there waiting鈥攖he perfect spot to catch your breath and soak in those Rh么ne-Alpes views. This is mountain driving at its most rewarding.
Where is it?
Col de l'Arpettaz: If you like hairpin turns, this is the road for you is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.6779, 2.4047
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 27.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,581 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.6779, 2.4047
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