GC-200 is an exhilarating road with 365 curves and spectacular views in the Canary Islands
Spain, europe
65.2 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
# GC-200: Spain's Ultimate Coastal Thrill Ride
Ready for one of the wildest drives in Europe? The GC-200 in Gran Canaria isn't just a road—it's an adrenaline-pumping adventure that'll make your heart race and your palms sweat. Stretching 65.2 km from Agaete to La Playa de Mogán along the island's western edge, this legendary route is basically the stuff road trip dreams are made of.
Here's what you're getting into: this isn't your average scenic drive. The most intense stretch runs between Agaete and La Aldea de San Nicolás de Tolentino, clinging dramatically to cliffsides for 25+ kilometers at elevations between 200 and 900 meters. We're talking hairpin turns that spiral endlessly—the road supposedly has around 365 curves—with sheer drops that'll genuinely make you white-knuckle the steering wheel. The pavement's barely wide enough for two vehicles to squeeze past each other, and trucks blare their horns around blind corners. Those protective barriers? They're pretty modest, so yeah, the views are breathtaking partly because you're literally staring into the abyss.
The scenery is absolutely jaw-dropping. You'll wind through the Parque Natural de Tamadaba and Gran Canaria's most remote, untamed coastline, where mountains dramatically plunge into the sea. The Mirador de Balcón offers stunning vistas across the water toward Tenerife. It's genuinely one of the world's best coastal drives.
Fair warning though: this road has a serious reputation. Before safety barriers went up in the 1970s, more than 40 people died here. The road can shut down without notice due to wind, rain, or the 150+ annual landslides that plague the area, especially during wet seasons. There's even a permanently closed section around km 20-22 due to rockfall hazards. Bicycles aren't allowed, and only experienced drivers should attempt this.
Plan on 2-2.5 hours of pure driving time if you don't stop. Just make sure to check road conditions before heading out—this beast demands respect and attention.
Where is it?
GC-200 is an exhilarating road with 365 curves and spectacular views in the Canary Islands is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 40.7951, -3.8236
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 65.2 km
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 40.7951, -3.8236
Related Roads in europe
hardWhere is Col du Liorin?
🇫🇷 France
Nestled in the Isère department of southeastern France, the Col du Liorin is a must-try for adventurous drivers. This mountain pass climbs to a respectable elevation. You'll find it south of the popular Combe Laval, acting as a quieter, more technical alternative within the regional park. What's the road like? Expect a proper alpine experience! The surface is paved, but it's narrow, weathered, and steep in sections. Think tall grass, pine forests close to the edges (watch out for damp spots and debris!), and a serious lack of guardrails. Passing can be tricky, so this one's best for experienced drivers who enjoy a "back-country" feel. The Liorin clocks in at just 4.2 km (2.6 miles), running south to north from Saint-Julien-en-Vercors. Don't let the short distance fool you — it's an intense climb with a good bit of vertical gain. The road clings tightly to the hillside, treating you to glimpses of the higher Vercors ridges. Heads up: snow and ice can linger in the shaded sections well into spring, so winter tires or chains might be needed at times.
hardDriving the Unpaved Road to Margherina Pass
🇮🇹 Italy
# Colle Margherina: A Wild Alpine Adventure Ready for something truly off the beaten path? Colle Margherina is calling your name. This stunning high-altitude pass sits at 2,420m (7,939ft) in Italy's Piedmont region, perched dramatically near the French border. You'll find it roughly 100 km southwest of Turin and 40 km west of Cuneo, nestled between the Maira and Stura valleys where the watershed divides the landscape. The drive spans about 23.5 km (14.60 miles) from Gias Bandia to Acceglio, and honestly? This isn't your typical Sunday cruise. The entire route is unpaved—a historic ex-military cart track that's seen better days. You're looking at a manageable grade overall, but don't let that fool you. Narrow sections, plenty of dust, hairpin turns, and the occasional sketchy drop-off keep things interesting. As you wind upward, you'll spot crumbling military barracks scattered along the way, adding an intriguing historical layer to this wild ride. This is mountain driving in its purest form—no frills, no smooth asphalt, just you, your vehicle, and some seriously dramatic Alpine scenery. It's challenging, it's raw, and it's absolutely unforgettable.
hardWhere is Buzi Pass?
🇬🇷 Greece
Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Buzi Pass! This epic mountain road straddles the Ioannina and Grevena regions of Greece, snaking its way through the Pindus mountains in the northwest. We're talking serious altitude here—one of the highest roads in the country, topping out way above sea level. The route from Buzi to Smixi is paved, but don't let that fool you. This is one defiant stretch of road! And while I can't put an exact number on the length from village to village, it's a winding journey you won't soon forget. You'll be cruising through the Kleidi Gorge, past incredible scenery that'll have you pulling over every five minutes for photos. Keep an eye out for the Aradena bridge, too. Just a heads-up: this road is narrow and can be challenging. But the views from up here are worth every white-knuckle moment, especially knowing you are so close to some of the highest villages in the country!
hardSkihaus Schöneben Fraiten
🇮🇹 Italy
# Skihaus Schöneben Fraiten Tucked away at 2,105m (6,906ft) in South Tyrol's stunning alpine landscape, this high mountain refuge sits right where Italy, Switzerland, and Austria meet. It's one of those magical border locations that makes you feel like you're on top of the world. Getting there is half the adventure. The road is paved but don't let that fool you—it's narrow and seriously steep. Weather here is unpredictable, so the route can shut down without warning when snow rolls in. You'll definitely want to check conditions before heading up. Want to push even higher? A gravel road continues climbing to 2,379m, marking the absolute peak of the ski resort. It's a thrilling drive through some of the Alps' most dramatic terrain, with every hairpin turn revealing another jaw-dropping view. Just make sure you're prepared for the elements—this is serious mountain driving territory.