Is the road to Col du Plateau Rosa unpaved?
Italy, europe
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: the Col du Plateau Rosa, perched way up high in the Italian Alps. We're talking serious altitude here! Now, fair warning, this isn't your average Sunday drive. Forget smooth tarmac—this road is all rugged, unpaved adventure. And trust me, you'll want a 4x4 to tackle the steep inclines.
This road isn’t just for kicks, it’s actually a service route for a chairlift, but that doesn't mean the views are any less spectacular. Once you conquer the climb, reward yourself at the summit restaurant.
The whole thing is a relatively short but intense jaunt. Over just a few kilometers you gain a huge amount of elevation, so get ready for some seriously steep sections. Keep in mind that this road is a no-go in winter due to snow. As you grind your way up, you'll pass by .
Related Roads in europe
extremeCan you drive the Glen Quaich?
🇬🇧 Scotland
Located in Perth and Kinross, Scotland, Glen Quaich is one of the most picturesque yet dangerous roads in the country. It's one of the highest roads of the country Can you drive the Glen Quaich? It’s said to be one of the most stunning drives in Scotland. The road is totally paved but extremely narrow in parts. The road is unsuitable for caravans, trailers, and long vehicles as there are very few passing places. The road is very steep, hitting a 17% maximum gradient through some of the ramps. How long is Glen Quaich? The road is 17.38km (10.8 miles) long, running east-west from Amulree to Kenmore. It’s a two-way road with traffic able to travel in both directions. Is Glen Quaich worth it? Set high in the Highlands of Scotland, the drive offers stunning views of Loch Freuchie. This road offers keen drivers a chance to experience a few minutes of driving on steeply winding roads and allows passengers to absorb breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by green fields and patches of woodlands, this drive is not for the faint-hearted. It tops out at 538m (1,765ft) above sea level. The road is very treacherous in winters and can pose a danger to the public in winter conditions. It can become especially risky when temperatures drop. Travelling the General Wade’s Military Road from Inverness to Fort Augustus Cairnwell Pass is a sensational steep drive in Scotland Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
moderateWhat’s Forte del Gran Serin?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: You're in Italy, near Turin, itching for an off-road adventure. Forget the crowded tourist spots and head for Forte del Gran Serin. First things first, this isn't a Sunday drive kind of road. We're talking about the Strada Militare del Gran Serin, a completely unpaved track that demands a proper 4x4 with some serious clearance. Seriously, leave the Fiat at home. This wild road climbs to a lofty elevation, making it one of the highest routes you'll find in Italy. The track stretches for , so buckle up for a slow and steady ascent with an average gradient of . Keep in mind, access to the fortress is often blocked by a barrier, and you can forget about it in winter – heavy snow makes it impassable. Assuming you can get through, this former military road leads to the ruins of the Forte del Gran Serin. It has artillery positions, barracks and is overall a sight to see in the wilderness. While the fort is crumbling, the views are absolutely stunning. It's a raw, rugged, and unforgettable experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
moderateThe narrow D102 is a dangerous balcony road
🇫🇷 France
# D102: A Heart-Pounding Alpine Adventure Looking for one of France's most jaw-dropping scenic drives? Welcome to D102, a 10.9km mountain road nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence that'll have your white knuckles gripping the steering wheel in the best way possible. This beauty winds through the Verdon Regional Nature Park, hugging the dramatic canyon carved by the Rayaup river as it snakes between towering peaks and dense forests. Running north-south from Castellane to Le Bourguet, the entire route is paved—small mercy, right? But here's the catch: it's a single-track ribbon carved right into the mountainside with virtually nowhere to pull over if another vehicle comes your way. Caravans and trucks aren't even allowed, which tells you something about the road's temperament. D102 is a proper balcony road—the kind that cuts audaciously into sheer cliff faces, demanding serious respect from anyone behind the wheel. The hairpin turns come fast, the views are absolutely stunning, and the margin for error is, well, nonexistent. Your hands will legitimately sweat. Those summer electrical storms that roll through the valley? Spectacular, but probably something you'll want to avoid. Here's the golden rule: take it slow, stay in your lane, and actually use those parking spots provided along the way. This road isn't trying to kill you, but it'll certainly make your heart skip a beat. It's the kind of drive you'll be talking about for years—assuming you keep your eyes on the road instead of the view (though that's asking a lot).
hardWhere is Etang de Soulcem?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the French Pyrenees, heading towards a hidden gem called Étang de Soulcem. This high-altitude reservoir sits pretty at 1,649m near the borders of Andorra and Spain. The drive starts in Val-de-Sos and winds its way up for 17.8 km. Don't let the smooth, paved surface fool you, though! This road gets pretty steep with some ramps hitting a grunty 15% gradient. Over that distance, you'll climb a hefty 987 meters! Trust me, though, the views are insane. The lake itself is stunning, full of fish, and the area is just breathtaking. Word of warning: the road can get narrow, especially near the top. There are some tight hairpin bends, so keep your eyes peeled. Also, this area can have rock slides, so be aware. Sadly, this route is usually snowed in during winter, so plan your trip accordingly! Once you reach the top, park at Parking du Chemin des Orris, and you can explore a gravel road. Worth the trip? Absolutely!