
Puerto Collado
Spain, europe
3.3 km
914 m
hard
Year-round
# Puerto Collado: A Rocky Adventure in Andalusia
Tucked away in the stunning Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park near Málaga, Puerto Collado is a thrilling mountain pass sitting at 914 meters (2,998 feet) above sea level. This isn't your typical smooth, paved road experience — and that's exactly what makes it fun.
Starting from the A-7207 road in Cómpeta, you're looking at a 3.3 km climb that'll test your skills and your vehicle. The elevation gain of 264 meters might not sound like much, but with an average gradient of 8%, you'll definitely feel it. The route gets properly steep at points, and the gravel and rocky terrain is bumpy and unpredictable — so this one's definitely for experienced drivers only. Seriously, you'll want a 4x4 for this adventure.
Here's the real kicker: weather can flip the script instantly. Thunderstorms in the area can transform these unpaved roads into full-blown four-wheel-drive territory or make them completely impassable in minutes, so timing is everything.
But here's the reward for making it to the top? There's a bar at the summit where you can celebrate conquering this wild ride while soaking in those incredible mountain views. Welcome to one of Andalusia's most unpolished — and unforgettable — driving experiences.
Where is it?
Puerto Collado is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 40.7433, -2.8496
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 3.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 914 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 40.7433, -2.8496
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