
Juvasshytta is the highest road in Northern Europe
Norway, europe
9 km
1,854 m
moderate
Year-round
# Juvasshytta: Norway's Sky-High Adventure
Ever heard of a place with a name straight out a sci-fi movie? Welcome to Juvasshytta, a mountain resort perched at a seriously impressive 1,854 meters (6,082 feet) in the heart of Jotunheimen. This is it—the highest road in Norway and all of Northern Europe. No pressure, right?
Nestled in Lom municipality in Innlandet County, this drive is absolutely stunning and honestly? Totally worth the trip. As you wind your way up, you'll be treated to gorgeous views of Juvvatnet Lake that'll make you forget about the steep grades ahead.
Now, let's talk real talk: the road is fully paved, but it's no leisurely cruise. You're looking at some seriously gnarly 16% grades on certain sections that'll have you gripping the wheel pretty tight. Built way back in 1936, the road's been holding strong ever since—though heads up: the last 9 km require a toll payment. Stone fields line the route, adding to that raw, alpine vibe.
The 13.8-kilometer (8.57-mile) ascent from Galdesanden climbs 1,283 meters with an average gradient of 9.3%. Yeah, it's intense, but the payoff is incredible.
Here's the catch: this private-but-public road only opens from May through September, so timing is everything. Always check the weather and road conditions before you go—conditions can change fast up here. Once you summit, you'll find yourself at the Galdhøpiggen Summer Ski Centre, perched on a glacier at the foot of Norway's highest mountain.
Trust us—this is the kind of drive that'll stay with you forever.
Where is it?
Juvasshytta is the highest road in Northern Europe is located in Norway (europe). Coordinates: 62.8339, 13.9754
Road Details
- Country
- Norway
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 9 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,854 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 62.8339, 13.9754
Related Roads in europe
extremeWhere is Sella Carnizza Pass?
🇮🇹 Italy
Sella Carnizza Pass sits way up high at 1,123 meters (that's 3,684 feet!) in the Province of Udine, Italy. You'll find it nestled in the Uccea Valley inside the Parco Naturale Regionale delle Prealpi Giulie, practically spitting distance from Slovenia. This isn't just any road; it's a blast from the past, an old military road dating back to 1916. Now, don't go thinking this is a Sunday drive! This winding beauty, also called Prelaz Karniza, is paved but seriously demanding. Picture this: nine hairpin turns so sharp they'll make your head spin, insane inclines hitting a max of 23.5%, and spots so narrow you'll be holding your breath hoping you don't meet another car. Keep your eyes peeled for potholes and the occasional rockfall adding to the thrill! It's 15.6 km (or about 9.7 miles) from Prato on Strada Provinciale 42 to Uccea on Strada Regionale 646 and winds through dense forests. At the top, you'll find a sweet little chapel called Cappella di Slimanciaza. Oh, and pro tip: this road is usually a no-go in winter.
moderateTake the Scenic Route and Discover Belpinari Beli
🇹🇷 Turkey
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! I just discovered this crazy cool mountain pass in Turkey that you absolutely HAVE to add to your bucket list: Belpınarı Beli. We're talking Konya Province, in the heart of West Anatolia, climbing to a dizzying 1,893 meters (6,210 feet)! The whole thing is paved, so no need for a 4x4, just your trusty car and a sense of adventure. This baby is typically open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather during the winter months – you know, just in case Mother Nature throws a snowy tantrum. The D340 stretches for 35.4 kilometers (almost 22 miles) of pure driving bliss. You'll be winding your way from Çakıllar (Karaman province) up to Taşkent (Konya Province), and let me tell you, some of those climbs are no joke, hitting gradients of up to 10%! Hold on tight and get ready for some seriously stunning scenery.
hardGergeti Trinity
🇬🇪 Georgia
Okay, picture this: the Gergeti Trinity Church. Perched way up in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia, at a whopping 7,145 feet, this 14th-century beauty is seriously breathtaking. We're talking Great Caucasus Range views for days! The road up? They paved it back in 2018, so it's smooth sailing – plus they've added signs and markings. Starting from Stepantsminda (used to be Kazbegi) off the S3 highway, it's just under 6 kilometers of winding goodness, with 7 hairpin turns to keep things interesting. You'll climb about 437 meters, so the average steepness is around 7.6%. Word to the wise, though: being that high up, the weather can change in a heartbeat. Strong winds are common, so pack accordingly! And keep an eye out, because the old, narrow road is still there too. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
moderateWhere is Col du Portillon-Coll de Portilló?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for the Col du Portillon-Coll de Portilló! This beauty straddles the French/Spanish border high up in the Pyrenees, hitting a cool 4,242 feet above sea level. You'll find it in southwestern France (Occitanie region) and northern Spain (Catalonia). The road itself? Expect curves! It's paved, but get ready for a winding ride: about 10km (6.2 miles) on the French side and 7km (4.3 miles) on the Spanish. Even the Tour de France has tackled this one! Total length comes in at around 17km (10.56 miles), heading east-west. It's usually open year-round, though winter can bring some temporary closures, so check ahead. This drive isn't recommended if you easily get motion sickness, as it offers dizzying drop-offs. Prepare for some stunning scenery, too!