Driving the international Pavlic Pass
Austria, europe
19.3 km
1,349 m
hard
Year-round
# Pavlič Pass
Nestled in the stunning Julian Alps, Pavlič Pass sits at 1,349m (4,425ft) and marks the scenic border between Slovenia and Austria. Named after a local farmer, this charming mountain crossing connects Lower Styria in northern Slovenia with Austria's Carinthia region.
The fully paved route stretches 19.3km (11.99 miles) from Solčava in Slovenia to Bad Vellach in Austria, running east-west across some seriously gorgeous Alpine terrain. Known as the Seeberg Highway (B 82) on the Austrian side and Route 428 in Slovenia, this pass has quite the history—the first road opened way back in 1894, though it didn't get fully paved until 2000.
Fair warning: this isn't a leisurely Sunday drive. The road climbs steeply with some sections hitting a gnarly 15.7% gradient, so grip your steering wheel tight. But that's half the fun, right? You'll weave through dense forests, pop out into charming villages, and cruise past Alpine meadows—the scenery shifts constantly and keeps you engaged the whole way.
Cyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts absolutely swoon over this route when the weather's cooperating. The narrow sections add a bit of technical challenge, making it perfect if you're looking for something with real character. Just pick a clear day, take your time, and soak in those mountain views.
Where is it?
Driving the international Pavlic Pass is located in Austria (europe). Coordinates: 47.4640, 13.3464
Road Details
- Country
- Austria
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 19.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,349 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 47.4640, 13.3464
Related Roads in europe
moderateThe Ultimate Guide to Traveling to Portarró d'Espot
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Portarró d'Espot! This high mountain pass sits way up in the province of Lleida, Catalonia, Spain, clocking in at a cool 2,430m (7,972ft). We're talking one of the highest roads in the whole country! Tucked inside the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, prepare for a seriously challenging and winding ride. Forget your pavement princess – this route is totally unpaved, and closed off to regular cars. 4x4 is the name of the game here. And listen up, during or after bad weather, even your trusty four-wheel drive might not cut it! Basically, you're looking at a summer-only kinda adventure. But trust me, the views are worth it! Starting in Espot, a town in Pallars Sobirà, you've got a 13.4km climb ahead of you. That might not sound like much, but you're gaining 1,098 meters in elevation along the way. That's an average gradient of 8.19%! Reach the top, and you'll be rewarded with a killer panoramic view of the entire park. This summit is *the* spot for snapping some epic landscape pics.
hardTire Integrity: The Physics of Grip and Safety on Technical Roads
🇬🇧 England
Okay, picture this: the Bealach na Bà, aka "the Pass of the Cattle." It's nestled right in the Applecross peninsula in the Scottish Highlands. Clocking in at just over 11 miles, don't let the short distance fool you. This road is a beast! Starting near sea level, you'll climb rapidly, hitting a maximum elevation of 2,054 feet (626 meters). Prepare for hairpin turns that'll make your palms sweat, and single-track sections where passing requires some serious negotiation skills. Hazards? Oh, we've got 'em. Think blind summits, crazy steep gradients (some hitting nearly 20%), and unpredictable weather. One minute you're basking in sunshine, the next you're navigating through thick fog. But here's the payoff: the views! Absolutely breathtaking. Think rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, and coastal panoramas that stretch for miles. If you're looking for an unforgettable driving experience and jaw-dropping scenery, the Bealach na Bà is calling your name. Just be sure your brakes are good!
hardWhere is Rifugio Barbara Lowrie?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: you're in Italy, near Turin, itching for an adventure. Head towards the Cottian Alps because that's where you'll find Rifugio Barbara Lowrie, sitting pretty at a seriously high elevation. The hut is nestled right in the heart of a plateau, surrounded by dreamy larch woods and grazing pastures, with the imposing Monte Granero watching over the scene. Getting there? That's where the fun – and the challenge – begins! The road...well, let's just say it's an experience. We're talking unpaved, and not in a charming, rustic way. Think rough, with some seriously steep sections hitting a max gradient of almost 15%! It’s a proper workout and makes for one of the most challenging cycling climbs in Italy, so much so that they hold a race there. The road to the rifugio is just shy of 7 miles, climbing almost 3,000 feet. Keep in mind this is a mountain road in the Alps, which means it's usually closed during the winter months. So, if you're planning a visit, aim for the warmer seasons for a truly unforgettable Italian adventure with views that'll knock your socks off!
moderateIs the road to Col de la Savoliere paved?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, buckle up, road trippers, because Col de la Savolière is calling! Nestled in the Haute-Savoie department of France, this beauty sits pretty at 1,421m (4,662ft) above sea level. You'll find it in the Rhône-Alpes region, southeastern France. Good news: the D308 road to the top is fully paved, so your ride will be smooth. This scenic route is a decent 20.8km (12.92 miles) long, stretching from the D328 road all the way to Mieussy on the D907 Road. Heads up, though: while usually open year-round, winter can bring short-term closures, so check ahead. And be prepared for some climbs! You'll encounter some pretty steep sections where the gradient maxes out at 10.6%. Get ready for incredible views!