How long is Kihnu Ice Road?
Estonia, europe
13 km
250 m
hard
Year-round
Ever dreamed of driving across the Baltic Sea? In Estonia, you actually can! The Kihnu Ice Road, a wild 13 km (8 mile) stretch of frozen sea, connects the mainland at Lao (near the Tõstamaa peninsula) to Kihnu Island. Forget your average Sunday drive, this one's for seasoned ice road warriors only! Historically, armies even used this frozen path to invade the islands back in the Middle Ages.
But before you pack your bags, there are a few things to keep in mind. Weight limits are usually around 2-2.5 tons, and you've gotta keep a safe distance of 250 meters (820 feet) between vehicles heading the same way. Speed is key too: stick to under 25 km/h (16 mph) or between 40–70 km/h (25–43 mph) to avoid causing dangerous resonance in the ice. Other crucial rules include no seatbelts (seriously!), no stopping, three-minute entry intervals, and daylight driving only. Sounds intense, right? But imagine the views and the bragging rights!
Road Details
- Country
- Estonia
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 13 km
- Max Elevation
- 250 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
moderateHelgeland Coast National Tourist Route
🇳🇴 Norway
# Helgelandskysten: Norway's Coastal Masterpiece Ready for one of Norway's most jaw-dropping scenic drives? The Helgelandskysten (FV17/County Road 17) in Northern Nordland is an absolute must-do for any road trip enthusiast. This 433-kilometer coastal adventure winds from Holm to Godøystraumen, hugging the shoreline with stunning views at practically every turn. The route is mostly asphalted, though you'll encounter some narrow sections that'll keep you on your toes. Fair warning: this journey includes several ferry crossings, so factor those into your travel time. And if you've got the time, definitely take the scenic detour to Torghatten—it's worth every kilometer. Expect some genuine thrills along the way, especially at Fantesteinen Pass, where you'll navigate winding roads with a few seriously fun hairpin turns that'll get your adrenaline pumping. The highest point tops out at 346 meters, so while it's not extreme elevation-wise, the scenery more than makes up for it. The good news? This route is open year-round, so you can experience it whenever inspiration strikes. Just keep in mind that winter weather can occasionally close sections temporarily when conditions get rough—typical Norwegian drama, really. Overall, combining routes 17, 76, and 54, this is an unforgettable coastal escape that showcases everything that makes Northern Norway special.
moderateWhere is the D656 Road?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, so picture this: you're cruising through the Var department of France, right? You stumble upon this little gem called the D656. It’s not a long drive, clocking in at only about 5.2 km, but hold on tight because it's a wild one! This road hugs the mountainside, connecting to the D56 (aka Route des Crêtes!) near the Alpes-Maritimes border. It's paved, thankfully, but don't think that makes it easy. Think hairpin turns, steep drop-offs, and spots so narrow you might want to fold in your mirrors. Seriously, newbie drivers might want to sit this one out, and leave the RV at home – this road has a length restriction. But trust me, the views are worth it. You'll be treated to stunning vistas as you navigate this thrilling route. It's a real rollercoaster ride, and one you won't soon forget.
moderateWhere is Kronplatz-Plan de Corones?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, so Kronplatz-Plan de Corones is this crazy-high mountain pass in the stunning Italian Alps of South Tyrol. You'll find it nestled right in the autonomous region of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol. The road up? Well, it's paved but in two distinct acts. First, you're cruising up from Furkelpass - Passo Furcia. It starts off easy, lulling you into a false sense of security before throwing some serious steepness your way towards the end of the asphalt. Then comes the real challenge. Picture tons of hairpin bends, each one seemingly steeper than the last. We're talking max gradients of 21-24%! This climb has even tested the legs of pros in the Giro d'Italia bicycle race. If you're tackling it from St. Vigil in Enneberg, it's about long with serious elevation gain.
hardAuron
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're carving your way up a twisty mountain road in the French Alps, heading towards the ski resort of Auron. You start in the village of Le Bourguet and the road, known as the M39, is your ribbon of asphalt, pulling you higher and higher. Get ready for some seriously stunning views as you climb 591 meters over just 11 kilometers. The average grade is a manageable 5.4%, but hold on tight, because you'll hit some steep bits, up to 10.8%! Auron sits pretty at 1,652m (5,419ft), so prepare for that crisp mountain air! Get ready for hairpin turns, scenic vistas, and an unforgettable drive in the Alpes-Maritimes department.