Karabet Geçidi is one of the highest paved roads of Turkey
Turkey, europe
42.7 km
2,994 m
moderate
Year-round
# Karabet Geçidi: Turkey's Sky-High Alpine Adventure
Want to experience one of Turkey's most thrilling drives? Head to Karabet Geçidi, a stunning mountain pass sitting pretty at 2,994m (9,822ft) in Van Province. This is seriously high-altitude driving territory.
The fully paved route—also known as Krapet Geçidi—stretches 42.7 km (26.53 mi) from the village of Bahçesaray westward to the Gevaş Çatak Yolu Road. What makes this drive legendary? Those adrenaline-pumping hairpin bends that'll keep you gripping the wheel and grinning the whole way up.
The pass generally stays open year-round, which is pretty impressive for somewhere this high. That said, winter can be sketchy—heavy snowfall and nasty weather conditions occasionally force temporary closures, so check conditions before you go in the colder months. But here's the magical part: when spring rolls around, the entire landscape explodes with wildflowers in every color imaginable. Locals have this beautiful saying that these blooms "belong to God for half the year."
If you're hunting for an unforgettable road trip through dramatic Eastern Turkish scenery with some serious elevation gains, this pass absolutely delivers.
Where is it?
Karabet Geçidi is one of the highest paved roads of Turkey is located in Turkey (europe). Coordinates: 36.9120, 35.2870
Road Details
- Country
- Turkey
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 42.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,994 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 36.9120, 35.2870
Related Roads in europe
moderateEstrada de Sao Bento: 12% Gradients and Endless Curves — Check Your Brakes!
🇵🇹 Portugal
Estrada de São Bento, aka the Loriga Pass, is seriously like Portugal's answer to the Stelvio Pass! You'll find this gem nestled west of Alto de Torre–Serra da Estrela, in the heart of the country. Named after the nearby peak of São Bento, this winding beauty (part of the N338) opened back in '06 and serves up panoramic views of the Serra da Estrela that will blow your mind. Picture this: smooth pavement, practically no traffic, killer views, and seriously steep climbs. Most people take the Seia–Covilhã road, so you'll practically have this stunner all to yourself. This road is all about pure driving joy — think smooth curves and fresh mountain air. It's one of the least-traveled routes up the mountains, which makes it even more awesome. Even surrounded by other great roads, the Loriga Pass is where the curves get tight and you just want to drive it over and over again! Fair warning: this drive is intense. Countless turns and some ramps hit a 12% gradient! You'll see signs reminding you to keep it in low gear and check your brakes. Slow and steady wins the race here, and watch out for those high winds! This road is only 9.1 km (5.65 miles) from the N231 to the ER399, but in that short distance, you climb 682 meters and end up at a whopping 1,653 m (5,423 ft) above sea level! The average gradient is 7.49%, so get ready for some serious uphill action.
hardWhere is Buttertubs Pass?
🇬🇧 England
Okay, buckle up for Buttertubs Pass! This epic stretch of road sits high in the Yorkshire Dales, England, topping out at 1,732 feet. Jeremy Clarkson himself called it "England's only truly spectacular road," and he wasn't kidding. You'll find this paved beauty, also known as Cliff Gate Road (B6270), winding its way between Hawes and Thwaite for about 5.5 miles. The name? It comes from the super cool, deep limestone potholes near the summit where, legend has it, farmers used to stash their butter to keep it cool on market days. Don't let the light traffic fool you, this isn't a drive for the faint of heart. You're looking at some serious gradients (averaging 6.5%, but hitting 20% in spots!), hairpin bends, and *massive* drop-offs – we're talking over 400 feet! It can get slick when it rains, too, so drive smart. There's a tiny parking area at the top, but watch out for strong winds up there. So, is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are breathtaking, and the driving is pure adrenaline. Think steep climbs, quick descents, and corners that'll test your skills. It's been featured on Top Gear and other shows for a reason. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
moderateFV30 road on Canary Islands will either delight or terrify
🇪🇸 Spain
# FV-30: Fuerteventura's Most Thrilling Drive Ready for one of the most jaw-dropping road trips you'll ever take? FV-30 on Fuerteventura in Spain's Canary Islands is exactly that—equal parts breathtaking and white-knuckle thrilling. Winding through the Rural Park Betancuria, this 31km (19-mile) stretch connects Casillas del Ángel to Pájara on smooth, fully paved asphalt. But don't let that fool you—this road is no cakewalk. Expect it to narrow down to a single lane at points, with blind hairpin turns and stomach-dropping cliff edges that'll keep your hands gripped to the steering wheel. The good news? It's totally doable if you take your time and avoid meeting any buses head-on. The better news? The views are absolutely worth every nerve-wracking moment. This route cuts through the stunning volcanic landscape of Betancuria Natural Park, and if you're willing to drive slowly and soak it all in, you'll discover some seriously incredible scenic lookout points like Mirador de Morro Velosa, Mirador del Risco de las Peñas, and Mirador Las Peñitas. These aren't just pit stops—they're Instagram gold with soul-stirring panoramas of the island's raw, rugged beauty. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just someone who loves spectacular scenery, FV-30 delivers the kind of drive you'll be talking about for years.
easy1. AB-4006: The Liétor Descent
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: Albacete, Spain – not just endless plains, but a secret world of insane driving roads hidden in the Sierra de Alcaraz and Sierra del Segura mountains! Think deep gorges, river canyons, and towering limestone cliffs. Forget the crowds, this is where you go to *drive*. Here's the lowdown on eight routes you CANNOT miss: **1. AB-4006: Liétor Descent (8.2 miles):** This is pure adrenaline. Starting from Liétor, it's a crazy plunge down to the CM-3203. We're talking seriously tight hairpins, and yeah, some *major* drop-offs. Unguarded, untamed, and 100% exhilarating. You need your A-game for this one! **2. CM-3203: Ayna Canyon (8.01 miles):** They call Ayna the "Swiss of La Mancha," and you'll see why. The road clings to the side of the canyon, leading to viewpoints where you can practically touch the limestone walls. Bring your camera. Seriously. **3. CM-3216: Alcaraz Connection (15.34 miles):** Think of this as your warm-up. A classic mountain road linking the CM-3203 to the AB-515 towards Alcaraz, perfectly paved and flowing. It's a rhythm of curves through the high plateaus. **4. AB-515: Peñascosa Track (10.62 miles):** Ready to escape? This route, blending sections of the A-24 and A-4, takes you deep into the Sierra de Alcaraz. Secluded, silent, and vast – just you and the landscape. **5. CM-412: Southern Gateway (29.57 miles):** This is your main artery for exploring the south. A longer stretch, but it's got everything: open roads, forested sections, and a true feel for the region. **6. CM-3204: Route to the Rio Mundo Source (4.66 miles):** Short, but PACKED with beauty. It leads to Los Chorros del Río Mundo, a natural wonder. The road itself winds through a forest that feels like it belongs in northern Spain. Lush, green, and unforgettable. **7. AB-509: Molinicos Forest Drive (8.32 miles):** Time to chill. This isn't about technical driving; it's about *views*. Densely forested, peaceful, and perfect for slowing down and soaking in the valley. **8. CM-3206: Bridge over Rio Tus (8.69 miles):** This route is full of surprises. The showstopper is the bridge over the Rio Tus, carved right into the hillside. It's a testament to mountain engineering, hugging the river as it winds through the gorge.