Is the road to Cankurtaran Geçidi paved?
Turkey, europe
59 km
2,150 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip lovers, let's talk about Cankurtaran Geçidi! This high mountain pass punches through the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey, specifically in Ardahan Province. We're talking serious altitude here, topping out at 2,150 meters (that's 7,053 feet for my imperial system friends!).
The entire 59 km (36 miles) route from Ardahan to Göle is paved and generally in good condition, so no need for a monster truck. Think wide roads, mostly straight, but be prepared for some seriously steep climbs. Nestled within the Mehmetçik Hatıra Ormanı national forest, the scenery is fantastic. Keep an eye on the weather, though; winter can bring closures. But if you catch it right, you're in for a treat!
Road Details
- Country
- Turkey
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 59 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,150 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
hardLiqeni i Balgait
🇦🇱 Albania
Okay, so picture this: you're in northeastern Albania, Dibër County to be exact, and you're itching for an adventure. I've got just the spot! It's called Liqeni i Balgait, a high mountain lake sitting pretty at 1,748 meters (that's 5,734 feet!). Now, getting there? That's half the fun (or the challenge, depending on your perspective!). The road is 7.5 km of pure, unadulterated gravel and rock. Think tippy, bumpy, and definitely not for the faint of heart. We're talking a serious climb here, with an average gradient of almost 12% and a total elevation gain of 877 meters. Basically, it's steep! 4x4 is a MUST, and honestly, if unpaved mountain roads aren't your thing, maybe skip this one. And if you're scared of heights? Yeah, probably not the best choice. The views are insane, though. Just imagine reaching that stunning lake after conquering this beast of a road. Plus, be warned, wet conditions turn this trail into a muddy mess. But hey, that's what makes it an adventure, right?
extremeIs the Road to Goljam Medarnik Unpaved?
🌍 Bulgaria
Okay, thrill-seekers, buckle up for Goljam Medarnik in Bulgaria's Sofia Province! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about one of the highest roads in the country, clocking in at a cool 8,336 feet above sea level. Forget smooth asphalt; this 7.64-mile climb from the 6206 road is an unpaved adventure. Some say it's "extremely challenging," with rocky sections that'll test your mettle. You'll be gaining some serious altitude, folks, with a hefty elevation gain and gradients hitting double digits in spots. Word on the street is this road isn't exactly snow-friendly, so plan accordingly. But if you're up for a rugged climb with incredible views, Goljam Medarnik is calling your name!
moderateDriving the scenic Col de la Core in the heart of the Ariège Pyrenees
🇫🇷 France
# Col de la Core: A Scenic Pyrenees Classic Tucked away in the Ariège department of the French Pyrenees, Col de la Core sits at a breezy 1,395m (4,577ft) and connects the charming Bethmale Valley to the Salat Valley. This isn't some dramatic high-altitude monster—it's a pastoral gem that's become a Tour de France favorite for good reason. The 31km D17 route running north-south from Audressein to Seix is fully paved and takes you through some seriously gorgeous terrain. We're talking dense beech forests, green rolling hillsides, and cattle casually hanging out by the roadside. The plateau at the top opens up to stunning views of the Mont Valier massif, and you'll feel like you've stumbled onto someone's secret getaway. The whole region sits within the Regional Natural Park of the Ariège Pyrenees, which has this wonderfully lush, isolated vibe compared to the more dramatic central peaks. Now, here's the real talk: the road itself is narrow and winding with plenty of hairpin turns and sketchy stretches without guardrails. In dry conditions, it's totally manageable, but you'll want to stay sharp—especially on those blind curves where cyclists or grazing animals might appear. Autumn gets tricky when wet leaves coat the asphalt, turning those tight bends into slippery surprises. Summer fog can roll in and mess with visibility too, particularly in the forested sections near the valley. Winter brings occasional closures during heavy storms, and you'll need snow tires or chains when conditions warrant it. The sweet spot for driving? Late spring through early autumn when everything's at its best and the road is reliably open.
easyRoads of Albacete: 8 spectacular drives through the heart of Castilla-La Mancha
🇪🇸 Spain
# Hidden Gems: Eight Epic Drives Through Albacete's Mountains Tucked away in southeastern Spain, Albacete is one of those places that surprises you. Sure, the center's all flat plains, but venture south into the Sierra de Alcaraz and Sierra del Segura? That's where the magic happens. We're talking dramatic gorges, twisting river canyons, and limestone cliffs that'll make your jaw drop. Best part? You can actually *drive* these roads without battling tourist crowds. This region is basically a dream for road-trippers. The routes weave through thick forests and follow the curves of the Mundo and Segura rivers like they were made for each other. Ready to explore? Here are eight routes that absolutely deserve a spot on your bucket list. **Liétor to CM-3203 Junction** (13.2 km / 8.20 miles) This one's pure driving bliss. The road plunges toward Rio Mundo through a series of knee-knocking hairpins and sharp curves. Fair warning: there's minimal guardrailing on many sections, with some seriously steep drops hugging those shrub-covered slopes. You'll need to stay sharp, but the rush is totally worth it. **The "Swiss of La Mancha"** (12.9 km / 8.01 miles) Starting near the CM-3216 junction, this stretch takes you through the jaw-dropping village of Ayna, clinging to a canyon's edge. The real showstoppers? The Mirador del Diablo and Mirador del Infierno viewpoints—just steps from the pavement—offering vertigo-inducing views of those towering limestone walls. **CM-3203 to AB-515 (Towards Alcaraz)** (24.7 km / 15.34 miles) This is what a perfect mountain road looks like. Fully paved, well-maintained, and beautifully rhythmic as it carves through high plateau terrain. Pure flow, pure joy. **A-24 and A-4 to Peñascosa** (17.1 km / 10.62 miles) Want to escape the world? This secluded drive into the Sierra de Alcaraz delivers exactly that—just you, the silence, and endless landscapes stretching to the horizon. **CM-412: N-322 Junction to Fuente Higuera** (47.6 km / 29.57 miles) One of the longer routes on this list, this is essential for exploring southern Albacete. You'll get everything—open stretches, forested sections, the works. **Access to Los Chorros del Río Mundo** (7.5 km / 4.66 miles) Short but unforgettable. This road leads to one of Spain's most spectacular natural attractions, winding through dense, lush forest that feels more like the north than central Spain. Totally transportive. **Molinicos to CM-3206** (13.4 km / 8.32 miles) If you're after soul rather than adrenaline, this "vista" road delivers. The dense forest and peaceful valley views are perfect for slowing down and just soaking it in. **Route Towards Yeste** (14.0 km / 8.69 miles) This one's full of surprises—a spectacular bridge crossing Rio Tus and a series of tunnels carved straight into the rock. It's mountain engineering at its finest, hugging the river through the gorge beautifully.