Driving one of the highest roads of Europe to Sommet de Bellecote in the Graian Alp
France, europe
11.5 km
3,071 m
hard
Year-round
# Sommet de Bellecote: One of Europe's Most Extreme Alpine Drives
Want to experience one of the highest roads in Europe? Sommet de Bellecote awaits in the Savoie department of southeastern France, sitting at a jaw-dropping 3,071m (10,075ft) above sea level. This peak is tucked into the northern reaches of Vanoise National Park, right in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
Here's the thing—this isn't your typical scenic drive. Starting from Belle Plagne, you're looking at 11.5 km (7.14 miles) of pure adrenaline. The elevation gain hits 1,148m with an average gradient around 10%, which translates to brutally steep terrain that demands respect. And we mean *demands* it: the road is completely unpaved, so a proper 4x4 is absolutely essential.
The payoff? Stunning views of Glacier de la Chiaupe and vistas that'll make your heart skip a beat. But there's a catch—this road only opens from July through September, when the Alpine weather finally cooperates. Outside that window, it's impassable.
This isn't for the faint of heart or the underprepared. You'll need serious vehicle capability, nerves of steel, and respect for the mountain. But if you've got what it takes, this drive through the Graian Alps within the Vanoise Massif is unforgettable.
Where is it?
Driving one of the highest roads of Europe to Sommet de Bellecote in the Graian Alp is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.0462, 3.0484
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 11.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,071 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.0462, 3.0484
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