
Col de la Met is one of the highest mountain roads in Europe
France, europe
6 km
2,750 m
hard
Year-round
# Col de la Met
Nestled in the Savoie department of southeastern France, Col de la Met is a serious high-altitude adventure sitting at 2,750m (9,022ft). This is genuine mountain territory—part of the Rhône-Alpes region where the views are absolutely incredible.
Here's the thing: this isn't your typical scenic drive. The 6km route from the paved D1006 climbs a brutal 679m with an average gradient of 11.31%, which means you're looking at some seriously steep terrain. The road is completely unpaved—it's basically a chairlift access trail that only opens during summer months. You'll need a proper 4x4 to even attempt this one. The trail is rough, unforgiving, and definitely one of France's wildest roads.
But if you've got the right vehicle and the nerve? The payoff is spectacular. From the summit, you'll take in sweeping views of Lac de Mont Cenis and the surrounding alpine peaks. It's the kind of road that makes you feel like you've genuinely conquered something.
This is peak season adventure driving—literally and figuratively.
Where is it?
Col de la Met is one of the highest mountain roads in Europe is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.7864, 1.4902
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 6 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,750 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 45.7864, 1.4902
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