Is The Shelf in Wales paved?
Wales, europe
7.72 km
348 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, so picture this: The Shelf. It's a mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,141 feet up in Denbighshire, Wales. We're talking the Clwydian Range, northeast Wales, for those of you who like specifics.
The road *is* paved, mostly, but heads up: you'll find potholes and gravel throwing a little spice into the mix. Honestly, climbing up is way easier than trying to come down, just take it slow and steady. It's a quiet road, so the peace and quiet are a definite plus.
This little gem is about 4.8 miles long, and it's narrow, let me tell you! There's this one bend halfway up with a 12% gradient that’ll get your attention, but don't worry, it mellows out soon after as you head towards Moel Y Waun. It's not the toughest climb out there, but the views from the top? Totally worth it.
Road Details
- Country
- Wales
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 7.72 km
- Max Elevation
- 348 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in europe
hardWhere is Strassberger Fürggli?
🇨🇭 Switzerland
Okay, picture this: Strassberger Fürggli, a Swiss mountain peak chilling at 2,109 meters (6,919 feet) in the eastern part of the country. It’s a bit off the beaten path, nestled near the Strassberg mountain hut. Now, heads up, the road to the top? Totally unpaved! You'll definitely want a 4x4 for this adventure. Forget about it in winter – usually impassable then. From the Strassberg hut, it’s just under 2 km (about 1.2 miles) to the peak, but get ready to climb – you'll gain 189 meters in elevation, so expect some steep sections. But trust me, it’s worth it! You’re way out there, soaking in an untouched mountain setting. The views of the Schanfigg are incredible, and if you keep your eyes peeled, you might spot some cool wildlife. Just be prepared for a narrow road with sections hitting 15% and some unlit tunnels on your way to the Vieux Emosson lake. It's a driver's dream.
extremeWhere is Collado de la Fuente del Chivo?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Cantabria, that stunning northern coast of Spain, and you decide to chase some serious altitude. That's when you head to Collado de la Fuente del Chivo, a mountain peak sitting pretty at almost 2,000 meters! You'll find it not far from the border with Castile and León, named after a local fountain. The road, CA-916, is all paved, making it the highest paved road in Cantabria. Now, it gets a little spicy — think narrow sections, hairpin turns that'll make you grin, and some seriously steep parts that climb up to a 17% gradient. The climb from Brañavieja is only about 5 kilometers, but you'll gain over 360 meters in elevation. It's so challenging that even the pros of the Vuelta a España bicycle race finished a stage right here! Fair warning: during winter, this road is usually closed because it becomes a snowy playground for skiers using the Alto Campoo resort. But here’s the real kicker: at the top, you're rewarded with views for days! The Mirador Fuente del Chivo is a natural viewpoint that'll blow your mind. You'll be gazing out over the Polaciones Valley, Peña Sagra, Peña Labra, Liébana, and the iconic Picos de Europa. Be prepared for wind and maybe some fog, but on a clear day? Unforgettable!
moderateA Wild, Defiant Unpaved Road to Hohsaas in the Swiss Pennine Alps
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Hohsaas: A Swiss Alpine Adventure Ready for a serious mountain challenge? Hohsaas is calling—a jaw-dropping peak sitting at 3,146m (10,321ft) in the Valais region of Switzerland, just a stone's throw from the Italian border. This isn't just any mountain road; it's one of Europe's highest, and honestly, it's pretty epic. Starting from the charming village of Saas-Grund, you're looking at roughly 14km of pure alpine terrain that'll test both your vehicle and your nerves. The elevation gain? A hefty 1,553m with an average gradient of 11.09%—so yeah, it's steep. Fair warning: this entire route is unpaved, and it's technically a chairlift access trail, which means it's rustic and raw. But that's part of the appeal, right? The road is only accessible during summer months when the snow finally clears, making this a seasonal bucket-list experience. Once you reach the summit, you'll find the cozy Berghütte Hohsaas mountain cabin—the perfect spot to catch your breath and soak in the incredible panoramic views of the Swiss Pennine Alps. If you're after an unforgettable high-altitude driving experience in one of the world's most scenic mountain ranges, Hohsaas absolutely delivers. Just come prepared for a serious climb.
hardCol de Corobin
🇫🇷 France
# Col de Corobin Ready for a thrilling alpine adventure? Head to southeastern France and tackle Col de Corobin, a 1,230-meter mountain pass tucked away in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This isn't your average Sunday drive—it's a proper alpine challenge that'll get your adrenaline pumping. Starting from the charming town of Digne-les-Bains, you've got a solid 9.31 km climb ahead of you. The road, D20, winds its way up the mountainside with a respectable 5% average gradient, gaining 472 meters of elevation. Now here's the thing: this isn't a wide, modern highway. The asphalt is real, but narrow and seriously steep in places. You'll need sharp focus and confident driving skills to navigate the tight bends and steep sections. The pass sits between Digne-les-Bains to the northwest and the small village of Chaudon-Norante to the southwest, making it the perfect detour if you're exploring this stunning corner of the French Alps. The scenery rewards your effort—mountain views, winding roads through dramatic terrain, and that incredible sense of accomplishment when you crest the summit. This one's best tackled in good weather with a well-maintained vehicle. Take it slow, enjoy the ride, and soak in those alpine views.