
Lac de Tseuzier
Switzerland, europe
9.7 km
1,780 m
hard
Year-round
# Lac de Tseuzier: A Swiss Alpine Adventure
Perched at 1,780 meters (5,839 feet) in the Bernese Alps, Lac de Tseuzier is an artificial lake that sits just north of the popular ski resort of Crans-Montana in Switzerland's Valais region. What makes this destination truly special? The absolutely wild road that gets you there.
Built between 1953 and 1957, this asphalt route is no joke. Starting from the charming town of Giète, you're looking at a 9.7-kilometer climb that gains a serious 626 meters in elevation. The average gradient sits at 6.45%, but here's where it gets spicy—certain sections hit a stomach-churning 27% steepness. We're talking genuinely steep.
The road itself is pretty narrow, and honestly, passing another car in some spots is basically impossible. As you approach the dam, things get even more dramatic with several tunnels cutting through the rock. A couple of these are seriously long, adding an extra element of adventure to your drive.
Here's the fun part though: the final few kilometers are relatively flat (mainly because you're driving through tunnels), which gives you a chance to catch your breath before you reach the summit. There's a nice big parking lot up top, so you can finally get out, stretch your legs, and take in those incredible Alpine views. Totally worth the adrenaline rush to get there.
Where is it?
Lac de Tseuzier is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.3508, 7.4306
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 9.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,780 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.3508, 7.4306
Related Roads in europe
hardColle Puazzo
🇮🇹 Italy
# Colle Puazzo: A Wild Ride Through the Piedmont Ready for a proper adventure? Colle Puazzo is this stunning mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,112 meters (3,648 feet) up in Italy's Piedmont region. The climb up via Strada Provinciale 213 is definitely not for the faint of heart—we're talking relentless switchbacks and some seriously steep gradients that'll have your palms sweating and your knuckles white on the steering wheel. Fair warning: the asphalt's there, but it's rough and unforgiving, testing both your car and your nerve with every twist and turn. This road connects the charming towns of Garessio on the western side to Callizano over to the east, threading through some absolutely breathtaking Alpine scenery. If you're looking to push your driving skills and soak in some world-class mountain views at the same time, this is the kind of road that sticks with you long after you've conquered it.
moderateWhere is Col de Puymorens?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, buckle up, because Col de Puymorens is calling your name! Nestled high in the French Pyrénées-Orientales at a cool 1,920 meters (that's 6,299 feet!), this mountain pass is a must-do for any road trip aficionado. You'll find it in the Occitania region, practically spitting distance from the Spanish border and the sparkling Mediterranean. The N320, the smooth paved road to the top, winds its way for 10.7 kilometers (or 6.64 miles for my American friends) between the N20 and N22. Be warned, though - it's a popular route, even for the big rigs! Expect some huffing and puffing with gradients reaching up to 7.7% in places. Cycling fans might recognize it from the Tour de France! This beauty is usually open year-round, but hey, it's the Pyrenees! Winter can bring some gnarly weather and temporary closures, so keep an eye on the forecast. A tunnel was built way back in '94 to help bypass it, but where's the fun in that? Get ready for some serious mountain views!
hardPas de Llevata
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Pas de Llevata in Catalonia, Spain is calling your name, sitting pretty at a whopping 2,445m (8,021ft). We're talking about one of Spain's highest routes here! Now, don't expect smooth sailing. This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking rocky, gravelly terrain. Yep, it's actually a chairlift access trail for the Boi Taull resort! Think seriously steep slopes covered in loose stones that get even more intense as you climb. This peak connects Sarroca de Bellera and la Vall de Boí, offering killer views. Heads up: You've only got a tiny window (late August) to tackle this beast. And be prepared for wind – seriously strong winds that seem to be constant. Nestled in the Vall Fosca valley, winter here means seriously brutal cold. Oh, and did I mention the road is a super steep ski-station service road? Some parts clock in at a crazy 30% gradient!
hardWhere is Lac de la Sassiere?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're in the French Alps, Tarentaise Valley, heart of the Vanoise National Park. You're headed up Route de la Sassière towards Lac de la Sassière, a stunning mountain lake sitting pretty at 2,462 meters (8,077 feet)! The road starts off paved, but just a few kilometers in, near a small dam, the asphalt gives way to a well-maintained dirt road. That's where you'll need to park the car and stretch your legs for the last 3.6 km push. Starting from the D902, the whole trek is about 10 km (6.21 miles) long, climbing a hefty 648 meters. That's an average gradient of 6.48%, so it’s a good workout! And keep your eyes peeled – this area is teeming with wildlife! Marmots and chamois are common sights along the way. Trust me, the views and the chance to spot some alpine critters make the journey totally worth it!