Highest roads of England
England, europe
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in England, right? Forget the rolling green hills and cozy villages for a sec. We're heading North and West, where things get *epic*. Think dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, and seriously awesome driving roads.
I'm talking about places like the Lake District and the Pennines, where the terrain is seriously challenging, but the views? Totally worth it. It's up here, winding through these remote moorlands and over high mountain passes, that you'll find England's highest paved roads.
These roads aren't just high, they're an experience. York's Hill will test your brakes with some of the steepest gradients in the country. Then there's Buttertubs Pass, a real showstopper and arguably the most spectacular road in England, twisting and turning through stunning scenery. Get ready for an adventure!
Related Roads in europe
moderateA paved road to the iconic Puerto de Ventana
🇪🇸 Spain
# Puerto de Ventana Nestled in Spain's stunning Cordillera Cantábrica mountains, Puerto de Ventana is a high-altitude gem sitting at 1,587m (5,206ft) above sea level. This mountain pass is your gateway between Asturias and Castilla y LeĂłn in northern Spain. The fully paved route is straightforward to navigate—you'll take the AS-228 from the north side and the LE-481 from the south. Good news for year-round adventurers: the road typically stays open throughout the year, though winter snow can occasionally force temporary closures. If you're starting your climb from San MartĂn de Taverga, prepare yourself for a 20km ascent that'll gain you 1,127 meters of elevation. Don't let that sound intimidating though—with an average gradient of just 5.63%, it's a steady, manageable climb that'll reward you with incredible mountain views. Whether you're a road trip enthusiast or a cyclist hunting for epic passes, this Spanish mountain crossing delivers the scenic payoff you're after.
moderateWhere is Col de la Vallée Étroite?
🇫🇷 France
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Nestled high in the French Alps, within the Vanoise National Park, you'll find the Col de la Vallée Étroite — a seriously stunning mountain pass that'll take your breath away (literally and figuratively!). So, where is it exactly? Picture this: southeastern France, in the Rhône-Alpes region. This isn't just any drive; it's a journey into the heart of the mountains. Now, be warned: this isn't your typical Sunday cruise. The road to the top is an old, rugged gravel track, so a 4x4 is definitely recommended. The adventure clocks in at about 21.9 km (13.6 miles) from the start, and trust me, you'll feel every kilometer as you climb. Speaking of climbing, get ready for a significant elevation gain! As you ascend, the views just keep getting better, a truly unforgettable experience. Important note: This route is usually closed in winter, so plan your trip accordingly! This is one for the summer months.
hardHow to reach the summit of Guillimona?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Sierra de la Guillimona in Granada, Andalusia, Spain! This baby tops out at 1,876m (that's over 6,150ft!) and sits right near the border with Albacete. So how do you get to this awesome, isolated peak? You'll start on the paved road between Puebla de Don Fadrique and Santiago de la Espada. From there, you'll kick it into off-road mode. The climb winds up a high-altitude plateau, giving you incredible views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Now for the nitty-gritty: the road's unpaved and a mix of gravel and rocks, so it can get a little bumpy. A 4x4 is HIGHLY recommended, especially if you want to make it to the top without any drama. The road has an average gradient of 6.07%, and with that loose, rocky surface, you'll need some serious traction and ground clearance. If you're not comfortable on steep, unpaved mountain roads, maybe skip this one. Weather's a big player here too. Things can change fast up there! Summer thunderstorms can turn the road into a muddy mess, and in winter, expect snow and ice to shut things down for months. But, if you're prepared and the weather cooperates, the views from the top are insane. You'll get a panorama of northern Granada, plus Albacete and Murcia. It's the perfect escape for anyone looking for a seriously remote driving experience, far away from the crowds.
hardA Narrow Paved Road to Puerto de la Ragua, Offering Stunning Views of Andalusia
🇪🇸 Spain
# Puerto de la Ragua: A High-Alpine Adventure in Spain's Sierra Nevada Perched at a breathtaking 2,046 meters (6,712 feet) in the heart of Andalusia, Puerto de la Ragua sits right on the border between Granada and AlmerĂa provinces. This isn't just any mountain pass—it's nestled in the legendary Sierra Nevada, home to some of Spain's most dramatic peaks. The 29.1-kilometer stretch along the A-337 connects La Calahorra to Laroles, winding through some seriously stunning terrain. Fair warning: the road is paved but definitely showing its age, with steep sections hitting 9.1% grades and narrow lanes (often under five meters wide) that demand your full attention. Hairpin turns and dramatic drop-offs—many lacking guardrails—keep you on your toes, especially on the notoriously tricky north face when winter rolls around. That said, traffic is refreshingly light at around 200 vehicles daily, and the pass typically stays open year-round, though snow can occasionally force closures. But here's what makes the effort worthwhile: the views are absolutely spectacular. From the summit, you're treated to panoramic vistas stretching in every direction. Look north toward the Marquesado plain and catch glimpses of the Sierra de Baza, Filabres, and Sierra de Cazorla. Turn south and take in the Sierra de Gador, Contraviesa, and on crystal-clear days, the Mediterranean Sea itself—and if you're lucky, even Africa on the horizon. The summit has a substantial parking area and ski facilities, plus plenty of short walking trails like those up MorrĂłn del Hornillo or Chullo for even more incredible perspectives.