Coll de Creu

Coll de Creu

France, europe

Length

22.7 km

Elevation

1,708 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

# Coll de Creu: A Pyrenean Adventure

Ready for a proper mountain challenge? Coll de Creu sits pretty at 1,708 meters (5,603 ft) in the heart of the Pyrenees, that stunning mountain range that forms the natural border between France and Spain.

The road itself is quite the character. Starting from Olette, you're looking at a 22.7 km climb that'll test your driving skills. The first part treats you to smooth asphalt, but once you pass Col de Jou, things get properly rugged—the road turns to gravel and narrows considerably as it steepens. Fair warning: this isn't a leisurely cruise.

The numbers tell the story: you'll be gaining 1,100 meters of elevation over those 22.7 km, averaging 4.85% gradient. The steepest sections hit 9.0%, so low gears and steady nerves are your friends here. It's the kind of road that demands your full attention but rewards you with incredible mountain scenery and the satisfaction of tackling one of Europe's more challenging passes.

Where is it?

Coll de Creu is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 47.0046, 1.3488

Share this road

Road Details

Country
France
Continent
europe
Length
22.7 km
Max Elevation
1,708 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
47.0046, 1.3488

Related Roads in europe

Mont Bashard

Mont Bas

🇫🇷 France

Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Mont Bas in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France, is calling your name – if you're ready for an *adventure*. This peak hits an elevation of 2,297m (7,536ft), and getting there is no Sunday drive. We're talking rocky, gravelly terrain up in the Alpes du sud. Picture this: a super steep slope of loose stones that just gets wilder as you climb. Honestly, it's more like a chairlift access trail than a road. You've only got a tiny window at the end of August to even attempt it, and be warned: the wind is a constant companion at these altitudes. Think ski-station service road-steep, with some sections clocking in at a crazy 30% grade! Winter? Forget about it – brutally cold. But hey, if you're after incredible views and bragging rights, Mont Bas might just be your ultimate conquest.

Valico di Monte Cristohard

Valico di Monte Cristo

🇮🇹 Italy

# Valico di Monte Cristo Picture this: you're cruising through the Abruzzo region of Italy, heading toward one of the Apennines' most dramatic high-altitude passes. Valico di Monte Cristo sits pretty at 1,767 meters (5,797 feet) above sea level, and honestly? The drive up is as unforgettable as the destination. The route, called Strada Statale 17 bis, is paved—thank goodness—but don't let that fool you. This isn't a leisurely Sunday drive. You're looking at some seriously steep sections that hit up to 10% gradient, and the landscape feels almost otherworldly as you climb. It's like driving on the moon, minus the zero gravity. One of the Apennines' highest passes, this road commands respect from anyone brave enough to tackle it. The narrow ribbon of asphalt winds through a lunar-like terrain that'll have you questioning what planet you're on. If you're planning to explore the area further, there's a paved narrow road leading to Colle Bettone, and the Barmasse Refuge is another worthwhile stop for those looking to stretch their legs and soak in the Alpine views. Fair warning: this isn't a road for the faint of heart, but if you're after an authentic mountain pass experience with jaw-dropping scenery and a genuine sense of accomplishment, Valico di Monte Cristo delivers.

The unfinished Borovsko Bridge (or Hitler's Bridge)moderate

The unfinished Borovsko Bridge (or Hitler's Bridge)

🌍 Czech Republic

You HAVE to see this! Tucked away in the Czech Republic, near Borovnice in the Benešov District, is the Borovský most, a truly spectacular unfinished highway bridge that crosses the Sedlický River. Imagine this: a massive concrete structure, standing about 100 meters tall. They even call it Czech Avignon or Hitler's Bridge! Construction started way back in 1939 as part of Hitler's "Reichsautobahn" project. It was meant to be part of a huge Transeuropean highway, but history had other plans. The bridge *was* eventually finished in the 50s, but the highway leading to it never was. The real kicker? In 1976, they flooded the area to create a drinking water reservoir, submerging a huge portion of the bridge. Now, it sits unseen in the middle of forests of the Bohemian-Moravian Highland. Warning: this whole lake district is a no-go zone! Entry is strictly forbidden due to water reservoir protection. So, while you can't *technically* visit, it's an incredible piece of history. The area makes you wonder "what if", while reminding us of the impact of World War II on Europe.

Fort de la Grande Mayeextreme

Fort de la Grande Maye

🇫🇷 France

Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Fort de la Grande Maye in the Hautes-Alpes region of France is calling your name. This isn't your Sunday drive kind of place. We're talking about a seriously steep and narrow gravel road that climbs to a whopping 2,401 meters (7,877 feet)! Picture this: you're winding your way up an old military trail—originally built for army vehicles, mind you—with some pretty gnarly, slippery sections and sheer drops that'll make your palms sweat. It's exposed up there, so you'll want to keep your eyes on the road (and maybe say a little prayer). But hey, the payoff is HUGE! This route is steeped in history. The fort itself was built in the late 1800s. And the views? Absolutely breathtaking. Just keep in mind this baby can be shut down anytime if the snow starts falling. Along the way, you'll be passing endless old forts, gun placements, and barracks.