Prophet Elias Chapel: Driving one of the highest roads in Greece
Greece, europe
7.7 km
2,232 m
extreme
Year-round
# Road to Prophet Elias Chapel, Mount Parnassus
If you're craving an unforgettable alpine adventure, the track to Prophet Elias Chapel is calling your name. Sitting at a breathtaking 2,232m (7,322ft) on Mount Parnassus in central Greece, this is legit one of the country's highest roads—and it's absolutely wild.
Let's be real: this isn't your typical Sunday drive. You're looking at 7.7 km (4.8 miles) of pure unpaved chaos—think loose limestone, gravel, and gnarly ruts that'll test even the most experienced drivers. Originally a service road for the Parnassos Ski Resort, this track climbs 648 meters and demands serious respect. You'll need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle, period. No guardrails, narrow passages, and dramatic drops into limestone valleys mean you need nerves of steel and a genuine head for heights. The landscape is otherworldly—think lunar terrain—with average gradients of 8.41%, though some sections are way steeper. Plus, your engine will definitely feel the altitude hit.
Oh, and the weather? Completely unpredictable. Strong winds can howl out of nowhere, and clouds can roll in and destroy visibility in seconds. Summer storms turn that dry dust into a treacherous skating rink real quick.
Winter? Forget about it. From December through April, this track vanishes under meters of snow and becomes part of the active ski runs. Late June to October is your window—but even then, you'll want to check the forecast, ensure your cooling system and tires are pristine, and come mentally prepared for one seriously challenging mountain experience.
Where is it?
Prophet Elias Chapel: Driving one of the highest roads in Greece is located in Greece (europe). Coordinates: 38.5391, 22.5994
Road Details
- Country
- Greece
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 7.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,232 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 38.5391, 22.5994
Related Roads in europe
hardA delightful yet challenging drive to Forcella Chiandolada
🇮🇹 Italy
# Forcella Chiandolada Hidden in the scenic mid-Boite valley, Forcella Chiandolada (also called Forcella Ciandolada) sits at 1,582 meters (5,190 feet) and serves as a stunning gateway between two Dolomites giants—Antelao and Pelmo. Located in Belluno province in Veneto, it's about 68 miles north of Venice and just 30 kilometers from Belluno town. The 6.3-kilometer climb from Vodo di Cadore is no joke—expect an average gradient of 12%, with some sections pushing past 17%. The steepest pitches hit a brutal 25-26%, so bring your A-game. The road is mostly paved with stretches of gravel, but here's the thing: it gets *narrow*. Like, uncomfortably narrow for passing other vehicles. If you're not confident reversing a car, you might want to reconsider or time your visit carefully. Once you reach the top, you'll find Rifugio Giampietro Talamini waiting for you—recently rebuilt and perfect for catching your breath and refueling. It's the kind of reward that makes the white-knuckle drive absolutely worth it.
moderateVaranger National Tourist Route
🇳🇴 Norway
Okay, picture this: you're cruising in Norway, and not just *anywhere* in Norway. We're talking about the designated National Tourist Routes – 18 absolute stunners that show off the country’s best scenery *and* incredible road design! Forget boring highways; these are journeys through landscapes that will leave you speechless. Think fjords, mountains, and coastlines that’ll make your jaw drop. Ten of these epic drives are right here in Western Norway. So grab your car or motorbike and let’s explore! **Varanger National Tourist Route:** 160 km of pure Arctic bliss between Varangerbotn and Hamningberg. Imagine: dramatic landscapes, rich birdlife, and long summer nights bathed in the midnight sun. Heads up, though, Hamningbergveien between Smelror and Hamningberg is closed in the winter. **Havøysund National Tourist Route:** Buckle up for 85 km of wild, windswept coastline from Kokelv to Havøysund. This is the far north, folks, so prepare for that incredible Arctic light. It's usually open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather in winter. **Senja National Tourist Route:** Get ready for 90 km of striking scenery along the outer coast of Senja Island, stretching from Gryllefjord to Botnhamn. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take the detours to Mefjordvær and Husøya, adding an extra 12 km to your trip! This one’s usually open, but watch out for winter closures. **Andøya National Tourist Route:** Calling all beach lovers! This 58 km coastal route between Andenes and Bjørnskinn on Andøya Island is all about wide-open seas and long, white beaches. It’s typically open year-round, but winter weather can cause short closures. **Lofoten National Tourist Route:** Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of the Lofoten Islands! This 230 km route from Raftsundet to Å is one of Norway's most iconic. It’s open most of the time, but keep an eye on the weather reports in winter. **Helgeland Coast National Tourist Route:** Spanning 433 km between Holm and Godøystraumen, this route is a journey through cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the Svartisen Glacier to the Vega Islands, you're in for a treat. Open most of the year, but be aware of possible winter closures. **Atlantic Road:** This 8 km stretch between Kristiansund and Molde is an experience! Sharp turns, wild nature – this is a road trip you won't forget. Open year-round, but watch for winter weather. **Geiranger - Trollstigen National Tourist Route:** Get ready for two of Norway’s most dramatic attractions! This 104 km route takes you to the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord and the thrilling Trollstigen Mountain Road. Note that Langvatnet to Geiranger is closed from November to May, and Trollstigen closes from October to May. **Rondane National Tourist Route:** This 75 km route from Muen and Sollia Church to Folldal offers a peaceful alternative to the main highways. Open most of the year, but winter closures are possible. **The Old Strynefjell National Tourist Route:** Step back in time on this 27 km masterpiece of road-building between Videseter and Grotli. Normally closed from October to June, so plan accordingly! **Sognefjellet National Tourist Route:** Climb high into the Jotunheimen mountains on this route between the Sognefjord and the Gudbrandsdalen Valley. It’s the highest mountain pass in Northern Europe! Liasanden to Turtagrø is usually closed from November to May. **Gaularfjellet National Tourist Route:** Follow the waterfalls on this 114 km route between Balestrand, Moskog, and Sande, taking you past the mighty Sognefjord. The road over Gaularfjellet is closed during winter from Mel to Mjell. **Aurlandsfjellet National Tourist Route:** Experience a barren plateau on this 49 km route between Aurlandsvangen and Lærdal. Closed over the mountain during the winter season, so plan ahead! **Valdresflye National Tourist Route:** Endless vistas await on this 49 km stretch between Garli and Hindsæter. Parts of the route are closed during the winter between Garli and Maurvangen. **Hardangervidda National Tourist Route:** Drive through Hardangervidda National Park, across Northern Europe's largest mountain plateau! This 67 km route runs between Eidfjord and Haugastøl. It's open year-round, but watch out for short winter closures. **Hardanger National Tourist Route:** Follow the scenic Hardangerfjord on this 158 km route east of Bergen. Expect mountains, fjords, and waterfalls galore! Open year-round, but be prepared for possible winter closures. **Ryfylke National Tourist Route:** This 260 km route between Oanes and Hordalia in Røldal offers a mix of green landscapes and dramatic mountains and fjords. From Helandsbygd to Røldal is normally closed from November to June. **Jæren National Tourist Route:** Open skies, wide horizons, and endless ocean await on this 41 km route between Ogna and Bore. Think sandy beaches and dunes for days! Open year-round, but may be closed for short periods in winter.
hardIs the road to Bola del Mundo paved?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, thrill-seekers, picture this: Bola del Mundo, or "Ball of the World," a seriously epic peak straddling Madrid and Segovia, Spain. You're talking 2,265 meters (7,431 feet) high! The road? It's paved, but don't expect smooth asphalt. It's rough concrete, so hold on tight. Fully paved since '09, so that's something! Starting from the well-known Puerto de Navacerrada, the climb is a mere 3.1 kilometers (just under 2 miles). Don't let the short distance fool you! Heads up: summit access is usually good in the summer. Winter? Could be a different story. Snow can shut things down quick. Also, private vehicles may not always be allowed due to how narrow and steep things get. Once you make it to the top, you'll find it's antenna city, broadcasting signals all over the place. Now for the fun part: this climb is BRUTAL. We're talking gradients maxing out at 23%! The ascent from Puerto de Navacerrada gains a hefty 361 meters, averaging over 11% incline. There are ramps of 16% right at the start, and again after about a kilometer. Then BAM, the 23% kicker hits you just before the summit. Even grand tour winner Alberto Contador called it "very difficult, dangerous," and steeper than some insane climbs in the area! He admitted he rarely rides it, and he lives there! Get ready for an unforgettable workout with some killer views!
hardRoad AS-260
🇪🇸 Spain
# A Must-Drive Route Through Spain's Stunning Northwest Nestled in Asturias, in Spain's breathtaking northwest corner, the AS-260 is seriously one of the most gorgeous drives you'll find in the country. Trust us, the views alone are worth the journey. This 21.1 km stretch connects the charming towns of Arriondas and Colunga, winding through the Sierra del Sueve mountain range. The asphalt is solid, but fair warning: the road gets pretty narrow with plenty of hairpin turns that'll keep you on your toes. The drive is steep too—we're talking consistent 8-11% grades all the way up—so take it slow and enjoy the ride. The real showstopper is Mirador del Fito, a 360-degree viewpoint sitting at 582 meters above sea level. From up there, you get jaw-dropping panoramas: the Cantabrian Sea coastline with its quiet beaches and craggy coves stretching north, and the magnificent Picos de Europa National Park rising to the south—including the uniquely shaped Naranjo de Bulnes peak. The viewpoint even has a little shop selling local Asturian products and a bar where you can grab a bite. **Here's the catch though:** this route is moody. Weather changes fast and drastically, with fog, rain, and snow rolling in without warning. Winter brings heavy snowfall that can close the road entirely, so don't attempt this drive in rough conditions. Summer's your safest bet, though expect it to be pretty busy with other travelers heading up to that incredible viewpoint. The road's even made appearances in the Vuelta a España cycling race—that should tell you something about how dramatic it is!