How to get to Stwlan Dam in Wales?
Wales, europe
2.89 km
512 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, picture this: you're in Gwynedd, Wales, ready for a climb up to Llyn Stwlan, a mountain reservoir perched 1,679 feet high. This isn't just any drive; it's a winding, paved ribbon snaking up to the Ffestiniog Power Station in Snowdonia National Park.
The road itself is a tight 1.8 miles from Tanygrisiau, packed with eight hairpin turns that'll keep you on your toes. Keep in mind that private vehicles aren't allowed and you might need snow chains or tires depending on the weather.
But trust me, the views are worth the effort. Once you're up there, the Moelwyn range and Vale of Ffestiniog will knock your socks off. Llyn Stwlan, once a small lake, now acts as the upper reservoir for the power station, with water plunging a thousand feet to generate power. The climb is intense, with some sections hitting an 18.4% gradient, gaining 279 meters in just 1.8 miles! It's steep, averaging around 9.65% — but the payoff is epic!
Where is it?
How to get to Stwlan Dam in Wales? is located in Wales (europe). Coordinates: 53.8007, -1.8039
Road Details
- Country
- Wales
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 2.89 km
- Max Elevation
- 512 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 53.8007, -1.8039
Related Roads in europe
moderateRoad Fv483
🇳🇴 Norway
# FV483: A Hidden Norwegian Gem If you're looking for one of those perfect little drives that seems tailor-made for a road trip, FV483 in Fjordane county, Norway, absolutely delivers. This 9.2-kilometer stretch hugs the western side of the stunningly blue Haukedalsvatnet lake, weaving through the Gaularfjellet mountains like it was drawn specifically to showcase the best views possible. The road itself is well-maintained asphalt, though fair warning—it's got some genuinely narrow sections that'll keep you alert and engaged. You'll wind past jaw-dropping scenery as the lake glimmers beside you, the mountains rising dramatically all around. The drive feels pretty remote and wonderfully isolated, which is exactly the vibe you want in a place like this. Near the end of the route, you'll pass through Storesvatunnelen, a 884-meter tunnel carved out in 1992. It's brief and straightforward, but it adds a nice little chapter to the drive. The road connects the National Road 13 (FV13) to the small village of Haukedalen, making it a fantastic detour whether you're just passing through or making it a destination itself. Basically, if you appreciate twisty mountain roads, pristine Norwegian scenery, and the feeling of being genuinely off the beaten path, FV483 is absolutely worth your time.
hardWhere is the Pantaloneta Triangle?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, so picture this: you're trucking through the La Rioja region of Spain, specifically the Sierra de la Demanda, and BAM! You're in the "Pantaloneta Triangle." What's that, you ask? Well, it's this crazy area formed by the towns of Bañares, Posadas, and Nestares where trucks are constantly getting stuck. We're talking double-digit rescues just this year! The culprit? A phantom gas station. GPS systems lead drivers (especially those in Slavic trucks) to Turza, a tiny hamlet near Ezcaray, promising fuel. Except... there's no gas station there! So, they end up deep in the wooded hills instead. Expect steep roads, dense trees, and plenty of potential for getting hopelessly lost and wedged in. The scenery? Probably stunning—if you're not too stressed about getting stuck. Basically, it's the Bermuda Triangle for truckers, but with more trees and zero chance of aliens.
extremeIs the gravel Road 953 (Mjóafjardarvegur) in Iceland dangerous?
🇮🇸 Iceland
Okay, adventure junkies, let's talk about Road 953, aka Mjóafjarðarvegur, a legendary gravel road lurking in Iceland's Eastfjords. If you're hunting for a thrill ride to the secluded village of Mjóifjörður and the iconic Dalatangi Lighthouse, buckle up! Hugging the northern edge of Mjóifjörður—they call it the wildest fjord around here—this road is carved right into the cliffs. We're talking serious exposure, with the North Atlantic crashing below. If heights aren't your thing, maybe skip this one, but if you crave insane views of deep blue water and pristine glacial valleys, keep reading. This road is a testament to engineering ingenuity, but it demands respect (and slow speeds). It's a winding gravel snake that's only open during the brief Icelandic summer. Expect a narrow track and some seriously steep sections, hitting up to 18% grade as you descend into the fjord. Oh, and did I mention you'll be cruising past the majestic Klifbrekkufossar waterfalls, cascading in tiers right next to the road? Trust me, you'll want 4WD for this one because the gravel can be loose and the turns are tight. The whole shebang stretches for about 46 km (28.5 miles), culminating at the Dalatangi Lighthouse, Iceland's original beacon. Along the way, prepare for epic vistas overlooking the river mouths of Loðmundarfjörður and Seyðisfjörður. Pro tip: skip this road at night or if visibility is poor. Seriously. This is a photographer's and adventurer's dream—a raw slice of Iceland's coastline far from the tourist throngs.
extremeHow long is the road through Kollafjarðarheiði pass?
🇮🇸 Iceland
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Want to experience the real Iceland? Head to the West Fjords and tackle Kollafjarðarheiði! This ain't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a 24.5 km (15.22 miles) unpaved, legendary F-road adventure snaking between Road 61 and Road 60. This high mountain pass tops out at 464m (1,522ft) and is ONLY open during the summer months (late June to early September, usually). Expect lunar landscapes, massive rocks, and a seriously bumpy ride that demands a 4x4 beast. Oh, and did I mention river crossings? This route serves up a healthy dose of adrenaline alongside breathtaking views. So, if you're craving an off-the-beaten-path experience, Kollafjarðarheiði is calling your name!