
Is the M90 the steepest section of motorway in the UK?
Scotland, europe
58 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Cruising through central Scotland? You've GOT to check out the M90 Motorway. This old-timer – the oldest motorway in Scotland, in fact – stretches 36 miles (58 km) from Edinburgh up to Perth. It's a major artery, connecting these two cities and originally bypassing charming towns like Kelty, Kinross, and Bridge of Earn.
Built over a couple of decades, it’s mostly a dual two-lane motorway and now even extends south to Kirkliston after the Queensferry Crossing was built. Keep an eye out for some cool engineering along the way!
Heads up at Craigend: the motorway splits! One section heads west towards the A9, and the other goes north towards the A90. But here’s the kicker: that western stretch has a seriously steep downhill gradient (5.65%!). The uphill section isn't a walk in the park either at 4.57%. Apparently, this can be a bit hairy if you get a bunch of lorries heading to Broxden. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Where is it?
Is the M90 the steepest section of motorway in the UK? is located in Scotland (europe). Coordinates: 54.3672, -1.5321
Road Details
- Country
- Scotland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 58 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 54.3672, -1.5321
Related Roads in europe
hardCol de Pierre Plate: The Road That Has It All!
🇫🇷 France
# Col de Pierre Plate Ready for a seriously scenic road trip? Col de Pierre Plate is a mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,027m (3,369ft) in France's Lozère department, nestled right in the heart of the Occitania region and the stunning Cévennes National Park. The D916 is a fully paved route that'll keep you on your toes—this isn't your straightforward highway. You're looking at a 44.8km (27.83 miles) stretch that weaves west to east between the village of Les Vignes and Florac, and trust us, every kilometer is an adventure. The road is delightfully twisty with nine hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills, plus some genuinely narrow sections where two cars simply can't pass each other. There are a few cliffsides to keep you humble, and the steepest sections climb up to 9.0%. If you're coming from Florac, expect a 5.8km ascent that packs 470 meters of elevation gain into its length, averaging a solid 8.09% gradient. Those steep sections aren't messing around, but the fully paved road means you'll have decent grip as you navigate the switchbacks and curves. This is the kind of road that rewards careful driving and rewards it well—the views through the Cévennes are absolutely worth every twist and turn. Just take it slow, stay focused, and enjoy one of France's most exhilarating mountain drives.
hardCerro de la Escusa
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Cerro de la Escusa in Ávila, Spain is calling your name. This peak hits an altitude of 1,952m (6,404ft) and the road to get there? Let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. We're talking gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta "hold on tight" moments, especially on some of those trickier sections. A 4x4 isn't just recommended, it's practically essential. And pro-tip: only tackle this beast when it's dry. Trust me on this one. The weather up here in the Sierra de Gredos can flip on a dime, so be prepared for anything. But, if you play it smart, the views are absolutely worth it. Imagine panoramas of the Valle Iruelas Natural Reserve and the Tietar Valley stretching out before you – pure magic! The road is generally open year-round, though winter storms can shut things down temporarily. So, keep an eye on the forecast and get ready for an unforgettable ride.
hardRefugi Cap del Rec
🇪🇸 Spain
# Refugi Cap del Rec Want to experience some seriously stunning mountain scenery? Head to Refugi Cap del Rec in Girona, Catalonia, where you'll find yourself at a crisp 1,986 meters (6,515 feet) above sea level in northern Spain. The good news? The road is fully paved and well-maintained. The catch? It's genuinely steep—we're talking sections that climb at up to 10% gradient. Don't let that intimidate you though; it just means you'll earn those incredible views of the Sierra del Cadí Mountains and the picturesque Cerdanya Valley below. As you approach the summit, you'll notice the nearby ski station, which gives you a sense of just how high you're climbing. It's a perfect destination if you're after that adrenaline rush combined with breathtaking landscapes. Pack some patience for those steep stretches and prepare yourself for scenery that'll make every hairpin turn worth it.
moderateWhere is Port de Bales?
🇫🇷 France
Port de Balès sits high in the French Pyrenees, right on the border between the Hautes-Pyrénées and Haute-Garonne departments. This paved beauty stretches for 25.3 km (15.72 miles), connecting Bourg-d'Oueil to Mauléon-Barousse. Fair warning: this isn't a drive for the faint of heart. The D925 and D51D are narrow, with some seriously steep sections hitting a maximum gradient of 13.3%! Expect some thrilling drop-offs and a distinct lack of guardrails. You'll likely encounter little traffic, and there aren't any facilities at the summit, so pack accordingly. Be aware that winter snow often closes the pass for extended periods. But oh, the views! At the summit (1,760m or 5,774ft), you're rewarded with a breathtaking, broad panorama of the surrounding mountains, including the snow-capped Spanish peaks in the distance. It's a magnificent 360-degree vista well worth the challenging drive. This route is so epic it's even been featured in the Tour de France and Vuelta a España!