How do you get to Kyparissi in Greece?
Greece, europe
14.6 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're heading to Kyparissi, a super cute, secluded village on the Peloponnese coast of Greece. But getting there? That's half the adventure! The road is a total white-knuckle ride – about 14.6 km (9 miles) of pure, paved craziness snaking along the mountainside.
We're talking hairpin turns, super narrow sections, and basically no guardrails separating you from some seriously steep drop-offs. If you're not a fan of heights, maybe focus on the road ahead! But honestly, the views are insane – lush green ravines and dramatic cliffs meeting the bright blue sea. It's thanks to this wild road that Kyparissi has stayed so unspoiled.
About two-thirds of the way there, you will be presented with a small Byzantine church right at the opening to the sea where you can stop and take a break. After your rest, it’s about a harrowing twenty minutes down the mountain. This road, built back in the '60s, is what keeps Kyparissi a hidden gem – even famous faces like George W. Bush, Prince Charles, and Princess Diana have vacationed here. So, buckle up and get ready for a drive you won't forget!
Road Details
- Country
- Greece
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 14.6 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
hardNational Tourist Route Valdresflye is a scenic drive in Norway
🇳🇴 Norway
# Valdresflye: Norway's Epic Mountain Drive Craving one of Norway's most iconic scenic drives? Look no further than Valdresflye, a stunning 49km (30.44 miles) mountain road that'll blow your mind. This gem winds through Innlandet county in eastern Norway, connecting the charming town of Garli near Beitostølen to Besstrondsæter in Vågå. What makes this route so special? It's totally paved and sits perched high on the eastern slopes of the Jotunheimen mountains, topping out at an impressive 1,393m (4,570ft) above sea level. You're literally driving one of the country's highest roads. The road gets narrow in spots, but it's mostly smooth sailing across rolling terrain that feels absolutely effortless—like it's floating above the landscape. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. From the mountain plateau, you'll catch stunning vistas of Jotunheimen National Park, then swoop down through gorgeous cultivated valleys dotted with mountain pastures. The contrast is incredible—wild, jagged peaks to the north giving way to serene rolling hills to the south. It's like you're getting two completely different landscapes in one drive. The route typically opens in early May and stays accessible through November, though the summit weather can shift in a heartbeat, so come prepared. The plateau is a legendary launching point for spring skiing expeditions and hikes into the Jotunheimen peaks. **Quick Details:** No ferries, but note that winter closures affect some stretches between Garli and Maurvangen (though the Hindsæter to Gjendesheim section stays open). Keep your eyes peeled for reindeer herds along the way!
extremeUnveiling Iceland's Wild Side: Top 9 Thrilling Tours Along Its Most Dangerous Roads
🇮🇸 Iceland
The Golden Circle, but make it *extreme*! We're talking ditching the tour buses for a 4x4 and venturing way off the beaten path. Think secret geysers that'll blow your mind, hidden waterfalls you won't find on any map, and landscapes so untouched they'll make you feel like you're the first human to ever see them. And the best part? You get to crash in Reykjavik at the end of the day! Comfort meets adventure – Icelandic style. Thorsmork Valley, AKA Thor's Valley, is calling all adventure junkies. This isn't your typical scenic drive; it's a full-blown odyssey into Iceland's rugged heart. Lush valleys meet towering mountains, all guarded by glacial rivers you'll actually have to *cross*. Forget paved roads – we're talking rough, raw, and real. The views are insane, though, totally worth the white-knuckle drive! Landmannalaugar – get ready for another world! Imagine mountains painted with a rainbow of colors, steaming hot springs that practically scream "relax here," and fields of lava that look like they belong on Mars. Getting there is half the fun, a true off-road adventure with river crossings and bumpy gravel tracks. But trust me, soaking in those hot springs surrounded by those crazy landscapes is an experience you won't forget. Fjallabak Nature Reserve is a hidden gem for those who crave the wild. Forget the crowds – here, it's just you and some seriously stunning scenery. Think steep mountains, lava fields begging to be explored, and rivers that look like they've never been touched by humans. This place is all about solitude and connecting with nature in its purest form. Get ready to unplug and immerse yourself in Iceland's untamed beauty. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is like Iceland in miniature, and it's begging to be explored. Forget the well-trodden paths and take the roads less traveled! You'll pass the iconic Snaefellsjokull glacier and dramatic cliffs, plus charming fishing villages, black sand beaches, and lava fields. It is perfect for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. The Westfjords: if "remote and rugged" is your jam, you need to get here. Picture this: narrow roads clinging to the edge of cliffs, views that'll take your breath away (if the drive doesn't first!), and villages that feel like they're stuck in time. The Westfjords are not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare, the reward is an unforgettable experience in one of Iceland's most pristine and dramatic regions. Askja Caldera and the Dyngjufjoll Mountains are where things get seriously otherworldly. We're talking lunar landscapes, massive volcanic craters, and a feeling like you're on another planet. Getting there is a challenge – the roads are rough, the terrain is unforgiving, but the reward is standing on the edge of one of Iceland's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Prepare to be amazed. The Reykjanes Peninsula is basically a live geology lesson. Here, the Earth's raw power is on full display – steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and lava fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. This place is unlike anything you've ever seen, from the famous Blue Lagoon to the hidden geothermal spots. It's a reminder of the wild, untamed forces that shape our planet. Last but not least, the Kjolur Highland Route: an ancient trail snaking between glaciers? Yes, please! Forget the crowds and embrace the solitude on this remote road. You'll find vast lava fields, relaxing hot springs and the surreal beauty of Hveravellir, a geothermal oasis perfect for a wild swim. The Kjolur Route isn't just a drive; it's a soul-stirring adventure that will leave you breathless.
moderateRoad trip guide: Conquering the paved San Marco Pass
🇮🇹 Italy
# Passo San Marco Nestled in the Bergamo Alps of Lombardy, Passo San Marco is a stunning mountain pass that sits pretty at 1,985m (6,512ft) above sea level. Straddling the boundary between Bergamo and Sondrio provinces in northern Italy, this route is pure Alpine charm. The pass is served by Strada Statale 470, which was originally designated as Strada Provinciale 8 (SP8) until 2021. The road itself was built in the post-WWII years, but here's the cool part—it follows an ancient route that's been connecting Lombardy to the Grisons area since the late 16th century. Along the way, you'll find Ca San Marco, a historic refuge built around 1830m that once provided shelter and care to weary travelers braving winter conditions. It's a humble reminder of how adventurous (and dangerous!) mountain travel used to be. The 24.2 km (15.03 miles) route runs south-north from Mezzoldo in Bergamo to Albaredo per San Marco in Sondrio, and it's completely paved with gentle grades—the steepest section tops out at just 10%, making it surprisingly accessible. Heavy trucks are banned here, keeping the road quiet and enjoyable for regular travelers. The summit even has a couple of monuments worth checking out, and it's popular enough to have earned its spot in the Giro d'Italia cycling race.
easyWhere is Col du Pourtalet?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: Col du Pourtalet, straddling the border between Spain and France at a cool 5,898 feet. You'll find it chilling on the edge of Parc National des Pyrénées, linking the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in France with the province of Huesca in Spain. This used to be a full-on border crossing, and you can still spot the old border post! Ready to drive it? The road, also known as El Portalet or Portalet d'Aneu, is paved from end to end. It's about 34 miles long, running north-south from Laruns (France) to Biescas (Spain). Weekends and summer can get a bit busy, so plan accordingly. If you're coming from Biescas, the climb is around 18 miles with a 3% average grade. It's a pretty fast, wide-open road with killer scenery. The road's built for ski resort traffic, so you know it's coach-friendly! Now, tackling the French side (from Laruns), you're in for about 18 miles of climbing. Expect three main "ramps" at around 7% grade, mixed with longer, gentler slopes. You'll cruise through gorges, alpine meadows, and authentic Pyrenean villages. It's generally an easy climb, sticking around 5%, with one steeper section near a dam. Plus, traffic's usually not too bad. The payoff at the top? Incredible views of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau mountain and the Cirque d’Anéou, where sheep and cows graze peacefully. You can also grab some grub at the supermarkets, bars, and restaurants before heading back down. The pass connects the Ossau (France) and Tena (Spain) valleys, too. Heads up, the climb can get pretty steep in sections, hitting almost 9% on some ramps. And while it's usually open in winter, heavy snow can close it for a couple of days.