
Dare to drive the dangerous Kilise Tepe
Turkey, europe
12 km
2,669 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers, because Kilise Tepe in Turkey's Artvin Province is calling! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a wild, unpaved climb to 2,669 meters (8,756 feet)!
Starting near Erenköy in Yusufeli, get ready for 12km of hairpin heaven (or maybe hell, depending on your driving skills!). You'll be clawing your way up, gaining a whopping 1,212 meters with an average gradient of 10.1%. Let's just say your engine will get a workout, and your brakes will get a test.
Definitely bring your 4x4 – you'll need it. And maybe pack a change of pants. The views are epic, but the road? Let's just call it "challenging". Oh, and don't even think about it in winter – this road is a no-go when the snow flies. But if you're up for a serious off-road adventure with incredible scenery, Kilise Tepe is waiting! It's a proper 4x4 road to the gorgeous Yildiz Lake in Bayburt.
Road Details
- Country
- Turkey
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 12 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,669 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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