Col Sud des Lacs
France, europe
N/A
2,484 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up adventure-seekers, because Col Sud des Lacs in the French Alps is calling your name! Situated way up in the Savoie department of southeastern France, this pass tops out at a lofty 2,484 meters (that's 8,149 feet!).
Now, don't expect a smooth cruise. We're talking a rocky road with plenty of loose gravel, so hold on tight for a bumpy ride! It's steep, pretty deserted, and generally snowed in from October to June (weather depending). This one's definitely for experienced off-roaders only. If unpaved mountain roads aren't your thing, maybe skip this one. A 4x4 is a must-have, and if heights make you queasy, you might want to reconsider! At the summit, you'll find Refuge de l'Etendard, a mountain refuge where you can take a break. Just be prepared for a seriously steep climb!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,484 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
moderateThe road from Aristi to Papingo. Navigating 23 Hairpin Turns in Greece
🇬🇷 Greece
# Aristi to Papingo: A Mountain Road Adventure Tucked away in the Ioannina region of Epirus, Greece, the drive from Aristi to Papingo is an absolute thrill for any road enthusiast. This 10.8 km (6.71 miles) stretch winds alongside the picturesque Voidomatis River through the heart of the Pindos Mountains, connecting these two charming towns with an unforgettable experience. What makes this route legendary? Those famous 23 hairpin turns. Seriously, this is one of the most celebrated switchback roads on the planet, and once you navigate it, you'll understand why. The road climbs from 620 meters in Aristi up to 930 meters in Papingo, with an average gradient of 2.87%—though some sections kick up to a gnarly 10% if you're not prepared. Don't let the technical challenge intimidate you, though. Yes, those hairpins demand your full attention and careful driving, but the reward is constant: jaw-dropping mountain scenery unfolds at virtually every turn. As you spiral upward, the landscape shifts and evolves, offering new perspectives and photo opportunities around each bend. If you're chasing an adrenaline rush paired with stunning natural beauty, this Greek gem absolutely delivers. Just take your time, enjoy the ride, and soak in those incredible views.
extremeIs D512 road in Croatia paved?
🇭🇷 Croatia
D512 state road is a very scenic coastal road running along the Adriatic coastline of Croatia. It's best coastal drives in the world. Is D512 road in Croatia paved? The road is entirely paved and carries substantial tourist traffic in summers. It provides access to , the highest road of the country. How long is D512 road in Croatia? The road is 30.6 km (19.0 mi) long. This winding hill road starts at Makarska, one of the best tourist destinations on the Croatian coast and ends near the Road 62 in Ravča, a town in the Split-Dalmatia County. Is D512 road worth it? Located in the southern part of the country, th e road is rewarding with awesome coastal views, but demanding driver's full attention at the same time. This cliff-side road still parts the steep hills standing sentry over the sea. Is D512 road challenging? The road is curvy in parts. Minor landslides are relatively frequent there. The most dangerous sections of the road due to landslides are being bypassed by several tunnels. Driving the coastal road to the beautiful Stara Baska on Krk Island A road with breathtaking views to Mount Srd in Croatia Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
extremeDay 1-2: Escaping the Capital to the Cotswold Ridges
🇬🇧 England
Okay, picture this: you're ditching London and heading west on the B4632, a former A-road that's way more fun than any motorway. This baby winds its way between Cheltenham and Stratford-upon-Avon, hugging the Cotswold Hills. Think sweeping turns and views for days. Day two? Get lost in those charming, but tiny, stone-walled lanes – you'll need to know your car's dimensions *real* well. Next up, Devon and Cornwall, where you'll tackle the legendary Porlock Hill, part of the Atlantic Highway. Hold on tight, because this beast boasts a 25% gradient! It's England's steepest A-road, a true test of your vehicle's brakes and cooling. As you descend toward Lynmouth, use that engine braking – you *do not* want brake fade here. Day four is all about exploring North Devon's ridiculously narrow lanes, where hedgerows tower above you. Reversing skills? Mandatory. Time for a ferry to the Isle of Wight and the Military Road. This is a road on the edge – literally. Coastal erosion is a constant threat, with the English Channel on one side and stunning downs on the other. Keep an eye out for closures and detours, because this road is in a constant battle with the sea. Back on the mainland, brace yourself for the A285 between Petworth and Chichester. This road is notorious, with sharp, deceptive bends and hidden dips that have earned it a reputation. Stay sharp, especially when transitioning from those fast straights into the technical, tree-lined curves. Finally, head back towards London through the North Downs, avoiding the M25. Tackle those climbs near Box Hill and the twisty lanes of the Surrey Hills for one last challenge. Expect tight corners and short, steep climbs before you plunge back into the city. Don't forget to give your ride a good check-up after this intense week of driving. This trip is more than just castles and cream teas. It's about the raw challenge of the British landscape, from those killer Exmoor gradients to the crumbling cliffs of the Isle of Wight. Get your vehicle prepped, check the weather, and respect the roads!
extremeWhere is Col de Ve Gautier?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Alpes-Maritimes in France, wind in your hair, heading for the Col de Vé Gautier. This epic pass sits at a cool 1,099 meters (3,605 feet) above sea level, connecting the Esteron and Fleuve valleys in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The road, known as the D27, is paved, but hold on tight! It's a wild ride with some rocky bits that demand your full attention. But trust me, the views are worth it. You'll be gazing down at the Estéron valley, a sight you won't soon forget. The pass stretches for 11.7 kilometers (7.27 miles) between Toudon and Ascros, and be warned: it's narrow and steep in places, with gradients hitting up to 8.0%. So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure!