Pla de Beret
Spain, europe
6.5 km
923 m
hard
Year-round
# Pla de Beret
Tucked away in Spain's Val d'Aran Valley in Catalonia, Pla de Beret sits pretty at 1,881m elevation in the heart of the Pyrenees. The mountain views here? Absolutely stunning—the kind that'll have you pulling over constantly just to take it all in.
The road up is the C-142B, and thankfully it's fully paved. Starting from Baqueira on the C-28, you're looking at a 6.5km climb with 9 tight hairpin turns that'll keep you on your toes. You'll gain 397 meters of elevation over that stretch, averaging around 6.1% gradient with some steeper sections hitting 9%—nothing too extreme, but definitely noticeable.
Fair warning though: winter can mean temporary closures, so check conditions before you go. The road gets noticeably busier on weekends and holidays, and during ski season it can get pretty packed. But here's the cool part—this climb has earned its stripes as a Tour de France and Vuelta a España stage, so you're literally following in the wheel tracks of the pros.
If you're planning a mountain drive through the Pyrenees, this one delivers both the challenge and the scenery in equal measure.
Where is it?
Pla de Beret is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 41.3450, -5.0051
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 6.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 923 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 41.3450, -5.0051
Related Roads in europe
hardDriving one of the highest roads of Europe to Sommet de Bellecote in the Graian Alp
🇫🇷 France
# Sommet de Bellecote: One of Europe's Most Extreme Alpine Drives Want to experience one of the highest roads in Europe? Sommet de Bellecote awaits in the Savoie department of southeastern France, sitting at a jaw-dropping 3,071m (10,075ft) above sea level. This peak is tucked into the northern reaches of Vanoise National Park, right in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Here's the thing—this isn't your typical scenic drive. Starting from Belle Plagne, you're looking at 11.5 km (7.14 miles) of pure adrenaline. The elevation gain hits 1,148m with an average gradient around 10%, which translates to brutally steep terrain that demands respect. And we mean *demands* it: the road is completely unpaved, so a proper 4x4 is absolutely essential. The payoff? Stunning views of Glacier de la Chiaupe and vistas that'll make your heart skip a beat. But there's a catch—this road only opens from July through September, when the Alpine weather finally cooperates. Outside that window, it's impassable. This isn't for the faint of heart or the underprepared. You'll need serious vehicle capability, nerves of steel, and respect for the mountain. But if you've got what it takes, this drive through the Graian Alps within the Vanoise Massif is unforgettable.
extremeWhat is Cow Green Reservoir?
🇬🇧 England
Nestled high up on the border between Cumbria and County Durham, Cow Green Reservoir sits pretty at 510m above sea level. This little gem holds back a whopping 40,000 million litres of water and stretches for 3km, so it's quite the sight. Getting there is part of the adventure! The road is fully paved, but be warned, it's a bit on the narrow side – expect some cozy moments if you meet another car. Starting from the village of Langdon Beck, the climb is a 4.66km push with some seriously steep sections hitting a 9% gradient. You'll end up at a car park. From there, a private road continues 2 miles to the dam and the awesome Cauldron Snout. The road is usually open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather, especially in winter. Being high up, conditions can change in a heartbeat, and it can get pretty chilly. The water even freezes over in the winter! Is it worth the drive? Absolutely! The views are incredible, with panoramas stretching out to Cross Fell, Great and Little Dun Fells, Meldon Hill, Mickle Fell, and other stunning North Pennine peaks. Get your camera ready!
easyWine Route
🇩🇪 Germany
# Wine Route (Weinstrasse): Germany's Most Scenic Drive Ready for one of Germany's best road trips? The Wine Route winds through some of the warmest, sunniest corners of the country, and honestly, it's a dream drive for anyone who loves wine and stunning scenery. This 85-kilometer journey kicks off in Schweigen-Rechtenbach, right on the French border in Rhineland-Palatinate, and wraps up in Bockenheim at the House of the German Wine Route. The entire route is perfectly paved, making for a smooth, exhilarating drive with incredible views around every bend. What makes this route so special? You'll cruise past rolling vineyards, charming wine villages straight out of a storybook, and beautiful cherry blossoms. The Palatinate region has this amazing Mediterranean-like climate—mild and pleasant, with weather that actually cooperates. You'll want your camera ready because the photo ops are endless. Beyond just driving, the real magic is in the experience. Stop for wine-tasting sessions, catch one of the local wine festivals, and indulge in the delicious Rhineland-Palatinate cuisine. It's the perfect combo of gorgeous scenery, great food, and world-class wine. Here's something cool: this is the oldest wine route of its kind in the world, and it's been continuously operating since October 1935. That's over 85 years of making this drive unforgettable. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just love a beautiful scenic road, this is absolutely a must-do.
moderateWhere Is Côté Verbier-Les Savoleyres?
🇨🇭 Switzerland
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! Let's talk about the Verbier-Les Savoleyres route. Nestled high in the Swiss Alps, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking serious elevation here, so be prepared for some thin air! First things first: leave your sedan at home. This is a chairlift service road, so a 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's practically mandatory. It's a decent length, taking you near the Col de la Croix de Coeur. Now, for the million-dollar question: is it worth it? Absolutely! The unpaved road winds its way up, treating you to views that'll make your jaw drop. Think panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. But a word of warning: this road is no joke. It's usually impassable from October to June. So, plan your trip accordingly. If you're chasing an unforgettable off-road experience with scenery that’s straight out of a postcard, Verbier-Les Savoleyres should definitely be on your list!