How long is the Eysturoyartunnilin?
Faroe Islands, europe
N/A
80 m
easy
Year-round
Cruising around the Faroe Islands? You HAVE to experience the Eysturoyartunnilin! This isn't just any tunnel; it's an underwater marvel connecting the capital, Tórshavn, to the island of Eysturoy.
Clocking in at a whopping 11,238 meters (that's over 36,000 feet!), this paved route plunges you deep beneath the Atlantic, reaching a low point of -189 meters (-620 feet), before rising to a modest 21.6 meters (71 feet) above sea level.
Opened in December 2020 after nearly four years of drilling, it links Tórshavn with Strendur and Runavík.
But the real kicker? It's home to the world's only sub-sea roundabout! And get this: local artist Trondur Patursson created an 80-meter high sculpture right in the middle. Talk about a photo op! Forget boring commutes; this is an underwater adventure.
Road Details
- Country
- Faroe Islands
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 80 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in europe
moderate2 roads in Ireland listed in Lonely Planet's Top 50 Epic Drives of the World
🌍 Ireland
Craving an epic Irish road trip? You're in luck! Two routes, the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route, serve up unforgettable scenery. First up, the Wild Atlantic Way. Clocking in at a massive 1,600 miles (2,600 km), it's the *longest* defined coastal drive *in the world*! This route hugs Ireland's entire west coast, from the Inishowen Peninsula down to Kinsale. Expect dramatic landscapes sculpted by centuries of Atlantic waves – think rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, charming villages, and maybe even a castle or two. For something a bit shorter, check out the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland. This 200-mile (321 km) beauty stretches from Belfast to Derry, offering similar Atlantic-carved views: think dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches! Plus, keep an eye out for whiskey distilleries and castles straight out of Game of Thrones. You could technically do it in a day, but trust me, spread it over two to soak it all in. A few tips for both routes: Road conditions are generally good, but Irish weather is famously unpredictable – sunshine one minute, thunderstorms the next! Drive at a reasonable speed, especially since you'll be sharing the road with pedestrians, farm animals, and wildlife. Be extra cautious if you're not used to driving on the left, too.
moderateA Most Tricky Scenic Road to Balos Beach
🇬🇷 Greece
# Balos Beach Road: Greece's Ultimate Coastal Challenge Picture turquoise waters lapping against pristine white sand—that's Balos Beach, and it's absolutely worth the wild ride to get there. Located on the edge of Crete's Gramvousa peninsula on the western side of the island, this stunning spot sits at the end of one of Greece's most notoriously demanding drives. **What You're Getting Into** The 8.8km (5.46 miles) stretch from Kaliviani to the parking area above the beach is totally unpaved, though passenger cars can handle it with care—though a 4x4 really is the way to go. Fair warning: check with your rental company about off-road coverage, as many contracts specifically exclude Balos. It's worth asking because, yeah, some agencies will note "No Balos" right in your agreement. **The Drive Itself** Plan on 35-40 minutes to navigate this rocky obstacle course, since you'll be crawling along at around 30 km/h max. The road is narrow, stone-filled, and features some seriously sketchy drop-offs with zero guardrails. Steep cliffs hug one side, and goats have a habit of launching themselves across your path without warning. Keep your eyes peeled and both hands on the wheel. **Why It's Worth It** As you creep along, you'll be treated to dramatic coastline vistas overlooking the Bay of Kissamos, with hillsides carpeted in wild thyme, oregano, and wildflowers. There's something magical about these winding views—perfect for those photo moments (if you can safely pull over). **The Final Stretch** Once you park, it's another 1.5-hour hike down to the beach itself, with some climbing involved on the return. Go early in summer to beat the crowds and secure a parking spot.
moderateWhere is Col d'Aspin?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: You're in the Hautes-Pyrénées department in France, ready to tackle Col d'Aspin. This isn't just any drive; it's a climb to over 4,800 feet above sea level! Nestled in the Pyrenees, it’s a cyclist's dream – think Tour de France fame! The road? Smooth asphalt all the way. It stretches for about 19 miles, running from Arreau to Sainte-Marie-de-Campan. The climb is steady, nothing too crazy steep, perfect for a fun challenge or linking up with other nearby climbs. Keep an eye out for cows chilling near the top – they're practically local celebrities. And the views? Absolutely stunning! You'll be treated to panoramic vistas, especially of the Arbizon massif, so have your camera ready. Trust me, this drive is worth every single hairpin turn. It's especially peaceful outside the busy summer season.
moderateWhy is it called Passo Tre Croci?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along Strada Regionale 48 delle Dolomiti in Italy's Veneto region, heading up to Passo Tre Croci. This fully paved road winds its way through the breathtaking Dolomites for about 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) from Cortina d’Ampezzo towards Misurina. The climb isn't too crazy – mostly gentle bends, though you might hit a 14.5% gradient in spots. The pavement's pretty smooth, but keep an eye out for a few bumps along the way. Even though you're in the Dolomites, the traffic's usually not too bad! Why "Pass of the Three Crosses," you ask? Legend has it, a mom and her two kids tragically perished in a storm here way back in the 1700s, and three crosses were put up in their memory. Once you reach the top at 1,811 meters (5,941 feet), you're rewarded with killer panoramic views of Monte Cristallo. There are hotels, restaurants, and plenty of parking. History buffs, take note: you can even explore old WWI military bunkers that were part of a defensive line against Austria. This pass is so awesome, it's even been featured in the Giro d'Italia! Cyclists and motorcyclists adore it. Definitely worth the trip!