Highest roads of Georgia
Georgia, europe
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hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in Georgia, right where Europe kisses Asia, and you're itching for an adventure. Forget your average Sunday drive – we're talking serious high-altitude thrills in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains! This road, snaking its way to the Akhuk-Dara Pass, is not for the faint of heart. It’s a beast of a climb through the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, and the views? Absolutely insane. We're talking dramatic elevation changes, so prepare for some hairpin turns and maybe a white-knuckle moment or two. But trust me, the scenery is worth every ounce of adrenaline. Think epic mountain vistas and landscapes that will leave you speechless. Just keep your eyes on the road, because this beauty comes with a side of, well, let's just call it "adventure."
Related Roads in europe
hardVal Thorens: One of the Longest and Biggest Climbs in France
🇫🇷 France
Val Thorens is a ski resort perched at a seriously impressive 2,300m (7,545ft) above sea level in the Savoie department of southeastern France. You'll find it nestled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, deep in the Tarentaise Valley, and it's the gateway to one of Europe's most legendary drives—the road to Orelle. The D117 is absolutely wild. This narrow, paved route climbs all the way up to 3,007m (9,865ft), making it one of the highest roads on the continent. What makes it truly thrilling? Tight hairpin turns, a bumpy surface, and—here's the kicker—zero guard rails in some sections. It's the kind of road that gets your adrenaline pumping. Val Thorens holds the title of Europe's highest ski resort, and it's been a star of the Tour de France for good reason. The climbing route starting from Moutiers (old-school name: Tarentaise) is genuinely epic: 36.5km (22.68 miles) of pure alpine challenge featuring 20 hairpin turns. You're looking at a 1,807-meter elevation gain with an average gradient of about 5%—definitely not a casual cruise. Whether you're a cyclist, road tripper, or thrill-seeker, this corner of the French Alps delivers some seriously unforgettable scenery and driving.
moderateUltimate 4WD Destination: Gudamakari Pass in the Caucasus
🇬🇪 Georgia
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for the Gudamakari Pass! This epic route climbs to a whopping 2,406 meters (7,893 feet) in Georgia's Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, practically spitting distance from the Russian border. Word of warning: this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking full-on off-road territory. The entire 18.1 km (11.24 miles) from Chokhi to Juta is unpaved, with washed-out sections and potholes galore. Seriously, you'll need a 4x4 with high clearance to even think about tackling this one. Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, Gudamakari Pass is usually only open from June to September due to heavy winter snow. Even during the open season, rain can turn the road into an impassable bog. But if you're brave (and prepared) enough to make the trek, you'll be rewarded with stunning views. Plus, you're super close to the awesome Chkhatiskari Waterfall, so you can make it a two-for-one adventure!
hardThe breathtaking road to Dzhanka Saddle
🌍 Bulgaria
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're hunting for an off-the-grid adventure in Bulgaria, Dzhanka Saddle is calling your name. Nestled high in the Rila Mountains, this bad boy tops out at 2,346 meters (that's 7,696 feet!), making it one of Bulgaria's highest roads. You'll find it straddling the line between Sofia and Blagoevgrad provinces, deep within the Rila National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the fire lookout tower at the summit! Now, here's the thing: this isn't your Sunday drive kind of road. We're talking completely unpaved, seriously steep (up to 18% gradient!), and definitely a 4x4-only situation. In fact, it's closed to private vehicles. The climb stretches for 7.6 km, and you'll gain 438 meters in elevation along the way. Get ready for an average gradient of 5.76% that will definitely test your mettle! Winter? Forget about it – this pass is impassable. But if you're up for the challenge, the views are supposed to be epic!
hardSantuario de Nuestra Señora del Acebo
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: You're in Asturias, Spain, southwest of the main action, ready to tackle a wild climb up to the Shrine of Our Lady of the Holy Tree, perched way up at 1,172m. You'll kick things off from Carballo, off the CN-4. This isn't your average Sunday drive – get ready for some seriously steep sections! It’s about 9km of winding asphalt, but don't get too comfy. This route gains 649 meters. That means an average gradient of over 7%. The road can get pretty tight – think single-lane narrow, so take your time. Oh, and did I mention sheer drops right next to the road? Yeah, hundreds of meters down with no guardrails to save you. The shrine itself is super cool, built back in 1590. Word to the wise: maybe skip this one at night or if the weather's dodgy, especially if you're a newbie. The curves are endless! It's usually open year-round, but snow can shut it down in winter. Fun fact: the Spanish Vuelta race has featured this climb, so you know it's legit.