How Long is Tunnel des Inversens?
France, europe
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in the French Alps, specifically in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, chilling near the stunning Lac des Inversens, practically on top of the world! You're up in the La Plagne ski resort area, cruising along at a seriously high elevation. Now, this isn't your average road; it's more like a cool, short tunnel— think pedestrian-friendly, but also open to vehicles (which is pretty unique). It's part of the blue ski run called, so yeah, expect some skiers! Basically, it's a handy shortcut to get you from one part of the mountain to another, letting you ditch the Carroley Mountain area with ease. The views? Absolutely epic. Just keep an eye out for those skiers!
Related Roads in europe
moderateAvoid the road to Öxi Pass in Iceland outside of summer
🇮🇸 Iceland
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're cruising around the Eastern Region of Iceland and looking for a detour that’ll get your heart pumping, check out Öxi Pass! This mountain pass, sitting pretty at 539m (1,768ft), is a shortcut between Djúpivogur village and Egilsstaðir, chopping off a good 71 km (44 miles) from the Ring Road. But fair warning, this isn’t your average Sunday drive. Axarvegur (Road 939) is a gravel road, so expect a bumpy ride! It’s narrow, steep, and winds its way up the side of a mountain, taking you from sea level to over 500 meters! This 20.5 km (12.73 mile) stretch is usually closed in winter, and even in spring, it can be a muddy mess best left to 4x4s and mountain trucks. Expect a wild ride with inclines hitting a max gradient of 20%!! Blind corners, slippery conditions from cascading water, and fog can all make this an intense experience, so bring your nerves of steel! But, oh man, the views! Tucked away in the Eastfjords, Öxi Pass delivers stunning scenery, especially the incredible Folaldafoss waterfall, often called Iceland’s hidden gem. There's a tiny parking spot for a few cars, so you can hop out and take it all in! Just remember, this road isn't for the faint of heart. Only tackle it in good weather and with a vehicle that can handle the terrain. Happy (and safe) travels!
extremeThe iconic Puente Nuevo of Ronda
🇪🇸 Spain
# Puente Nuevo: Ronda's Jaw-Dropping Bridge Perched about 40 miles west of Málaga in the heart of Andalusia, the Puente Nuevo is basically the crown jewel of the picturesque city of Ronda. Seriously, this bridge looks like it belongs in Game of Thrones—it's that dramatic. Built between 1759 and 1793 (talk about a long-term project!), this architectural marvel took 34 years to complete and connects Ronda's two distinct neighborhoods: the newer El Mercadillo and the charming old town, La Ciudad. The entire structure was constructed using local stone and soars an impressive 98 meters from its base to the top, spanning a heart-stopping 66 meters across the narrow chasm of El Tajo Gorge. The numbers alone are impressive, but standing on this bridge is something else entirely. You're standing 98 meters above the Guadalevín River below, with cobblestone beneath your feet and endless views of the gorge stretching out in every direction. It's become an absolute tourist magnet and the most iconic symbol of Ronda for good reason. Fair warning though: the bridge carries a dark history. Tales persist of Spanish Civil War prisoners being thrown from its heights, a grim chapter even immortalized in Ernest Hemingway's "For Whom The Bell Tolls." It's the kind of place where beauty and history collide in an unforgettable way.
extremeHow to get by car to Imbros Gorge in Crete?
🇬🇷 Greece
# Faragi Imbrou: A Thrilling Canyon Drive in Crete If you're hunting for one of Crete's most jaw-dropping road experiences, head to the southwest coast and prepare yourself for Faragi Imbrou—also known as Gola Di Imbros. This isn't just any gorge; it's one of the deepest and narrowest canyons the island has to offer, and the drive through it is absolutely unforgettable. The 16.8 km route stretches north-south between Askifou and Komitades, winding through the dramatic White Mountains range. What makes this journey so intense? Picture towering limestone cliffs so close together that in some spots you're driving through passages just 1.6 meters wide—that's less than 5 feet! The scenery is stunning: wildflowers dot the landscape, and you might spot sure-footed goats casually navigating the rocky terrain like they own the place. Now, let's talk about the drive itself. Though the road is fully paved (which is honestly a relief), it's got serious personality. You'll tackle 18 hairpin turns, navigate three tunnels, and handle gradient sections up to 10%—the road basically does everything except loop-de-loop. It twists and turns relentlessly, climbing and descending as it hugs the coastline. Beyond the adrenaline rush, there's real history here. During World War II, Allied soldiers used this very gorge as a critical escape route to reach the sea. There's also a fascinating local legend about two brothers banished from Imbros, Turkey, who settled in the nearby village. One heads-up: this road can close unexpectedly due to landslides, so check conditions before you go. But if you time it right, Faragi Imbrou delivers one of Greece's most spectacular driving experiences.
moderateWhere is Puerto del Ponton?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Puerto del Pontón is calling your name! This killer mountain pass sits way up high in Spain's Province of León, clocking in at a cool 1,298 meters (4,258 feet) above sea level. You'll find this gem in the northwestern part of Castile and León, right in northern Spain. The road, the N625, stretches for about 20.2 km (12.55 miles) from Vegacerneja to Oseja de Sajambre. And good news, road-trippers – it's paved and in pretty decent shape. Now, don't think it's a total cakewalk. This baby is STEEP, with gradients hitting 9-10% in places. But hey, that just adds to the thrill, right? You'll be winding your way through the Picos de Europa National Park, so the views are totally worth the climb. Speaking of winding, get ready for some serious curves, including four hairpin turns that'll keep you on your toes. Keep in mind, you're up in the Cantabrian Mountains, so while it's usually open year-round, winter can throw some curveballs with short-term closures due to the weather. But if you catch it right, you're in for a ride you won't forget!