Playa de Argaga, one of the gnarliest roads of Canary Islands

Playa de Argaga, one of the gnarliest roads of Canary Islands

Spain, europe

Length

1.5 km

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

# Playa de Argaga: La Gomera's Hidden Black Sand Gem

Ready for an adventure? Head to the western coast of La Gomera in Spain's Canary Islands to discover Playa de Argaga, a stunning black volcanic sand and pebble beach that feels like stepping onto another planet.

The journey to this secluded paradise is definitely not your typical beach drive. Starting from the town of Valle Gran Rey (yes, that literally means "Valley of the Great King"), you'll navigate a narrow, unpaved track that clings to the rocky cliffs for about 1.5 kilometers. It's rough, it's narrow, and honestly, it's pretty intense—falling rocks are a real hazard here, so keep your wits about you and your eyes on the road.

But here's the thing: the challenge is totally worth it. You're essentially driving through an unspoiled, isolated area that feels worlds away from civilization. The dramatic landscape hugs the rock face as you make your way down, and once you arrive at Playa de Las Arenas (another name for the same beach), you'll understand why locals keep this spot so well-guarded. It's become a favorite among those seeking a more... let's say, *clothing-optional* beach experience. The pristine black sand, the raw natural beauty, and the sense of discovery make every bump and twist in that road feel like an earned reward.

Where is it?

Playa de Argaga, one of the gnarliest roads of Canary Islands is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 40.4179, -4.6432

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Spain
Continent
europe
Length
1.5 km
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
40.4179, -4.6432

Related Roads in europe

Road F335 (Hagavatnsvegur)hard

Road F335 (Hagavatnsvegur)

🇮🇸 Iceland

Hagavatnsvegur (F335) in Iceland's Southern Region isn't your average Sunday drive! This 16.6 km highland track, starting from Route 35 near Sandá and leading to a hut by Hagavatn lake (fed by the Eystry-Hagafellsjökull glacier), demands a serious 4x4 with high clearance. Forget smooth sailing; this is a rocky, bumpy ride with unbridged rivers thrown in for good measure. Think large potholes, ruts, and boulders aplenty, especially as you approach Hagavatn and the Nýifoss waterfall. And if you're not a fan of heights, this might test your nerves! Small cars? Absolutely not – it's irresponsible and potentially dangerous. Open only during the summer months (late June to early September, give or take), F335 serves up incredible lunar landscapes. Don't expect crowds – this is a solitary journey. In fact, going solo isn't recommended. Cell service is spotty, and help could be a long time coming if you get stuck. Those river crossings? They're not for the faint of heart. Experience is key. Never cross alone or during heavy rain, as water levels can rise rapidly. Only well-equipped jeeps should attempt it. Always scout the river's depth beforehand, and remember: rental car insurance rarely covers water damage! But trust us, the views are worth the challenge.

Semnozhard

Semnoz

🇫🇷 France

# Semnoz (Crêt de Chatillon): A Classic Alpine Climb Perched at 1,660 meters (5,446 feet) in France's Bauges range in Haute-Savoie, Semnoz—also known as Crêt de Chatillon—is one of those legendary Alpine passes that actually lived up to the hype. The road up (D41) is fully paved, which is always a relief, but don't let that fool you—some sections hit a gnarly 11.4% grade that'll definitely keep you honest on the pedals or behind the wheel. The pass has serious cycling credentials too; it's been tackled by Tour de France riders over the years. At the summit, there's a modest ski station where you can grab a bite and soak in the views. **Getting to the top? You've got options:** Coming from **Quintal** is the shortest but spiciest route: 11.3 km with 922 meters of elevation gain averaging 8.2%. If you're starting from **Col de Leschaux**, it's a more relaxed 13.4 km climb at 5.7% gradient, gaining 763 meters. From **Annecy**, you're looking at 17.4 km and 1,212 meters of elevation gain (averaging 7%), which hits the sweet spot for most climbers. Finally, the **St Jorioz** approach stretches to 22.78 km with 1,202 meters of gain at a mellow 5.2%—perfect if you want to take your time and savor the Alpine scenery. No matter which route you choose, you're in for stunning mountain views and a climb that'll feel rewarding from start to finish.

Where is Col du Glandon?moderate

Where is Col du Glandon?

🇫🇷 France

Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk about Col du Glandon! This beast of a mountain pass sits pretty high up in the French Alps, in the Savoie department, clocking in at a cool 1,930m (6,332ft). You'll find it in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This is no Sunday drive, folks; it's known as one of the toughest climbs around. The road, D927, is paved and stretches for 46.4 km (28.83 miles) from Barrage du Verney to La Chambre. Cyclists, take note: this is the first climb and descent in La Marmotte sportive every July. Heads up though, this beauty is usually closed from early November to mid-May thanks to the alpine weather. But when it's open, you're in for a treat! Expect varied slopes, some seriously steep sections hitting a maximum gradient of 15.5%, and incredible views from the summit. There's even a parking lot and a bar-restaurant up top! The last 7 kilometers are the toughest, and the last two kilometers are over 10 percent with stretches of 12 percent. Starting from Barrage du Verney, the elevation gain is 1.152 meters over 24.12 km. And if you're coming from La Chambre, prepare for a 1.472-meter climb over 21.3 km. Built in 1898, Col du Glandon first appeared in the Tour de France in 1947 and has been a regular ever since. In summer, expect a decent amount of traffic, so keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready!

El Traviesohard

El Travieso

🇪🇸 Spain

El Travieso is a stunning 1,858-meter peak tucked away in Salamanca province, Castile and León, Spain. This little gem sits right on the border between Ávila and Salamanca within the Candelario Natural Park. The drive up is a real adventure. Starting from the village of Candelario, you'll tackle 9.5 kilometers of narrow asphalt road with some seriously exposed sections and hairpin turns—nine of them to be exact. Don't let that fool you though; the road is open year-round, though winter storms might occasionally force temporary closures. The climb is no joke, with grades hitting up to 12.5% in places and an average gradient of 7.6%. You'll gain 721 meters in elevation by the time you reach the summit. The Sierra de Béjar, nestled in the western reaches of the Sierra de Gredos mountains, really shows off in winter. Just be prepared: temperatures can plunge below -15°C, and the wind can be absolutely relentless up here. If you're planning a winter visit, bundle up. The real payoff? Those jaw-dropping mountain views that make every hairpin turn worth it. This is the kind of drive that stays with you—challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, beautiful enough to make you want to come back.