
Loch Ericht: the road drops down to the lake
Scotland, europe
17.54 km
351 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in Perthshire, Scotland, about to experience a truly stunning drive along the southern edge of Loch Ericht. This remote lake sits pretty at 351m (1,151ft), bordering the Highlands and Perth and Kinross, and the views are just epic!
The road kicks off from the B846 at Bridge of Ericht, stretching for 17.54km (10.9 miles) hugging the loch. Now, here’s the thing: it’s paved, but super narrow. Think single-track with passing places. So, keep your wits about you and maybe brush up on your reversing skills! Seriously, drive slowly and keep your fingers crossed you don't meet anything coming the other way.
Oh, and a heads-up, this road can be a no-go from late October to early May thanks to harsh winter conditions. And did I mention it's steep? You'll be tackling some 12% gradients on those ramps. But trust me, if you're up for a bit of an adventure, the scenery is SO worth it!
Where is it?
Loch Ericht: the road drops down to the lake is located in Scotland (europe). Coordinates: 53.1173, -0.6849
Road Details
- Country
- Scotland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 17.54 km
- Max Elevation
- 351 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 53.1173, -0.6849
Related Roads in europe
extremeDriving to Stausee Mattmark is an absolute must for road lovers
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Mattmark See: A Alpine Gem Worth the Drive Tucked away in Switzerland's Valais region near the Italian border, Mattmark See is a stunning high-altitude reservoir sitting pretty at 2,197m (7,208ft) above sea level. Nestled in the scenic Saas Valley, this is the kind of destination that makes the drive totally worth it. The road up? Absolutely pristine. Built between 1960 and 1965, the fully paved route is in fantastic condition and genuinely fun to tackle. Starting from the charming village of Saas-Almagell (1,673m), you've got a 7.3 km climb ahead with 524 meters of elevation gain. The average gradient sits at a manageable 7.2%, so nothing too brutal for the first stretch. But here's where it gets interesting: save the best for last. The final 2 km really turn up the heat, averaging around 10% gradient. And just when you think it can't get any steeper, the last half-kilometer before the dam hits a serious 14% gradient. It's gloriously steep and straight, making for an intense but incredibly rewarding finale. The payoff? A glacier looming above the finish line and one of those "I earned this view" moments that make mountain driving so addictive. If you're hunting for a short, punchy alpine climb with killer scenery, Mattmark See delivers in spades.
hardAdventure along the dangerous Lena River Ice Road
🌍 Russia
Hey thrill-seekers! Ever dreamed of driving on a frozen river? Then pack your bags for the Republic of Sakha in Russia! Here, you'll find the legendary Lena River Ice Road, connecting Yakutsk to Nizhny Bestyakh. This isn't your average Sunday drive; it's a 15.6 km (9.69 mile) stretch across the mighty Lena River, the 11th longest in the world. Picture this: you, your vehicle, and nothing but a ribbon of ice separating you from the frigid depths. Open only from late December to mid-April, this ice road is a lifeline, delivering crucial supplies to remote Siberian villages. It’s the only way to get from Yakutsk to the northern districts. But hold on tight – this journey comes with risks! The ice can be unpredictable, with cracks and thaws that have claimed vehicles and lives. You might even encounter closures due to sudden icing. Despite the hazards, this icy route offers breathtaking scenery. Just imagine the vast, white expanse stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget – if you dare to take it!
hardDriving the D22, a balcony road in France
🇫🇷 France
# The D22: A Thrilling Ride Above the French Riviera Picture this: you're perched high above the glittering Côte d'Azur, winding your way through one of France's most famous balcony roads. Welcome to the D22, a legendary stretch in the Alpes-Maritimes that's earned its reputation as an icon among serious cyclists and drivers alike. This isn't your average scenic drive. Starting right from the seafront in Menton (near the Italian border), the D22 climbs a jaw-dropping 18.5 km through a relentless series of sharp, narrow switchbacks. You'll tackle three notable cols—Bausson (732m), Madone de Gorbio (927m), and Saint-Pancrace (673m)—each one narrowing the road even further as you ascend. The gradient hits a brutal 12% in places, and thanks to the razor-sharp blind corners and near-nonexistent guard rails, this isn't a road to take lightly if you're afraid of heights. Fair warning: the road is barely wide enough for two cars to pass, there are no center lines, and you'll encounter five unlit tunnels carved straight into the rock. The asphalt is solid, but there's virtually no reprieve—it's relentless climbing all the way. Come summer, expect scorching heat and packed roads as tourists flock to Menton in July and August. But here's the payoff: the views are absolutely stunning. As you wind higher, the Mediterranean unfolds beneath you in breathtaking panoramas, with Monaco sparkling in the distance. The road stays open year-round, making it the perfect pilgrimage for anyone wanting to test themselves on one of Europe's most spectacular mountain drives. Just bring your camera—you'll want to capture every moment.
moderateBarbacana Pass
🇮🇹 Italy
Alright adventure-seekers, let's talk about Passo Barbacana! This wild ride straddles the Italian-French border in the Alpes-Maritimes, clocking in at a cool 2,180m (7,152ft). Here's the deal: you can drive up from the Italian side, but the French side is strictly for hikers. Think gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta bumps – this ain't your average Sunday drive. It's an old military road that's usually snowed in during winter. If you're an experienced off-roader, this is your playground! Newbies might want to sit this one out. Perched at the top is an abandoned military fortress steeped in history, a relic of the Franco-Hispanic campaign of 1744. You'll need a 4x4, and a good head for heights. The trail's pretty steep (think 13-15% inclines), and it can get muddy if it's wet. But trust me, the scenery is worth it! Picture stunning lakes and vibrant colors popping up all around.