Col du Tra: a curvy steep road only for experienced drivers
France, europe
21 km
1,312 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Col du Tra, a ridiculously scenic mountain pass way up in the French Alps (Savoie department, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region to be exact). We're talking 1,312m (4,304ft) above sea level! This one's a biker's dream, a ribbon of smooth asphalt (the D88, if you're into specifics) that winds its way for 21.0 km (13.04 miles) from Saint-Marcel (off the N-90) to La Plagne-Tarentaise (on the D220).
But hold up – it's not all smooth sailing. This road is seriously twisty! We're talking a whopping 39 hairpin turns, some of which sneak up on you. And fair warning, there are sections that are super narrow and steep, hitting gradients of up to 11.5%. Think of it as a thrilling alternative to the dull N90. Plus, you'll pass through some charming, ancient villages. Just keep your wits about you, and get ready for some seriously breathtaking views!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 21 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,312 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
hardCol des Anies
🇫🇷 France
Okay, so Col des Anies is a real hidden gem way up in the French Pyrénées-Atlantiques department. We're talking a whopping 2,134m (that's 7,001ft!) above sea level! Now, heads up, this isn't your average Sunday drive. The "road" to the top is more of a chairlift access trail – think gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta bumpy fun. It’s usually a no-go zone from October to June, thanks to the weather. Seriously, this one's for experienced off-roaders only, and you absolutely need a 4x4 to tackle it. And if you're not a fan of heights... maybe skip this one. Expect some pretty steep climbs along the way, but the views? Totally worth it!
moderateCol de Bretaye
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Col de Bretaye Ready for an alpine adventure? Head to the Swiss Alps in Vaud canton and tackle Col de Bretaye, sitting pretty at 1,806m (5,925ft) above sea level. The route up—Chemin de Bretaye—is a paved path that doesn't mess around. This is a seriously steep climb that'll test your legs and your lungs, but the payoff is totally worth it. Once you've conquered the summit, reward yourself at the mountain restaurant up there. Nothing beats catching your breath with a hot drink while taking in those incredible alpine views.
moderateHow Long is the Vecchia Strada dei Crozi?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, buckle up for a wild ride on the Strada dei Crozi in northern Italy's Trentino–Alto Adige region! This isn't your average Sunday drive. Tucked east of Trento, this 1.8-kilometer (1.11-mile) stretch was once part of the main drag, Strada Statale 47. Picture this: a fully paved road carved directly into the rock face. We're talking seriously narrow sections that will test your driving skills. Back in the day, this route was a vital connection between Trento and Valsugana. Originally built as an "Imperial Work," the construction of this road started in 1844 and took six years, requiring blasting teams who could only advance about 70-80 centimeters per day. Can you imagine the views as you hug the cliffside? Though it was bypassed in 1972, replaced by a viaduct over the Fersina stream due to safety concerns, it briefly reopened (2020-2022). Currently closed to private vehicles (with cycling plans in the works!), this historic road is a testament to engineering feats and a reminder of the challenging landscape of the Italian Alps.
moderateWhere is Huta Pass?
🇷🇴 Romania
Okay, road trip lovers, let me tell you about Pasul Huta, a sweet mountain pass nestled in northwestern Romania near the Ukrainian border. You might also hear it called Cireș Pass, Fărgău Pass, or even Sâmbra Oilor! This gem sits right on the border between Maramureș and Satu Mare counties, chilling in the Oaș Mountains of the Eastern Carpathians. Ready for a scenic drive? Hop on DN19 (that's National Road 19) and get ready for some curves! The whole route is paved, so no need for a monster truck. The pass stretches for about 18.9 km (or almost 12 miles) between Teceu Mic and Huta-Certeze. The highest point is 581m (1,906ft) above sea level, so expect some stunning views as you climb!