Col de la Vanoise

Col de la Vanoise

France, europe

Length

N/A

Elevation

2,522 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

# Col de la Vanoise

Looking for an adventure that'll take you to the clouds? Welcome to Col de la Vanoise, a seriously high mountain pass perched at 2,522 meters (8,274 feet) in the Savoie region of France.

Nestled within the stunning Vanoise National Park, this isn't your typical Sunday drive. The road to the summit is pure gravel, and regular cars need not apply—you'll need serious 4WD credentials to tackle this beast. Mother Nature basically owns this place from October through June, making those months pretty much off-limits (unless you're feeling particularly lucky with the weather).

It's the kind of destination that'll make your Instagram followers jealous and give you a story you'll be telling for years. Just come prepared, come equipped, and come ready for something truly special.

Where is it?

Col de la Vanoise is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.3903, 6.7950

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Road Details

Country
France
Continent
europe
Max Elevation
2,522 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
45.3903, 6.7950

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