
Road trip guide: 26 hairpin turns to Pas de l’Escous
France, europe
10.3 km
1,012 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Pas de l’Escous, a hidden gem nestled in the French Alps-Maritimes, not far from Italy. This paved beauty, also known as the D21, clocks in at just over 6 miles, stretching from Lucéram to the D2566.
What's the payoff? Seriously stunning views of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Reaching 3,320 feet, you can hit this route year-round. Just a heads up, thrill-seekers: it's got 26 hairpin turns and some seriously steep sections, hitting almost 10% grade in places. Best part? You'll likely have the road almost entirely to yourself. Total bliss!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 10.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,012 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
extremeHow long is ALP-822 road in Almeria?
🇪🇸 Spain
Get ready for a wild ride on the ALP-822 in Almería, Andalusia, Spain! This isn't just a road; it's an experience, especially if you're good with heights. Think dramatic cliffs dropping into the sea – stunning or scary, you decide! This 10.8 km (6.71 miles) stretch connects Níjar and San José, hugging the coast with incredible views. The road is mostly unpaved, winding through the totally uninhabited Parque Natural del Cabo de Gata-Níjar. You'll climb to 189m (620ft), facing some seriously steep sections (up to 16%!), so take it slow. Because it's narrow, barely wide enough for a car in sections, it can take around an hour and a half to drive. Expect some restrictions for trucks and trailers, particularly on weekends and in the summer. There are also barriers to completely close the road. The views? Absolutely epic. Think wild, isolated landscapes straight out of a movie – literally, since *Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade* and *The NeverEnding Story* were filmed here. Just be prepared for strong winds and barrier-less stretches. You'll be driving through Europe's only warm desert climate, past some truly unique geological formations.
moderateWhere is Llanberis Pass?
🇬🇧 Wales
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk Llanberis Pass in stunning Snowdonia, Wales! Nestled right in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, this isn't just a drive, it's an experience. Picture this: you're cruising on the A4086, a completely paved road snaking between the Glyderau and Snowdon ranges. Built way back in the 1830s, this 17.05km (10.6 miles) stretch connects Llanberis, chilling by Llyn Padarn lake, to Capel Curig. Give yourself about 20-30 minutes for a non-stop run, but trust me, you'll want to pull over. The views from the top are killer! Plus, the summit’s got everything you need: a bar, café, hostel, and parking. Just be ready for some steep climbs – we're talking gradients hitting over 10%! The Tour of Britain even tackles these hills, so you know it's legit. Llanberis Pass: history, tranquility, and views that will blow your mind!
hardWhere is Coe Pass?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: You're in northern Italy, specifically the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, ready to conquer Passo Coe! The climb kicks off near Calliano, and what awaits you is a sweet 19 km (11.8 miles) of winding road. Don't be fooled, though – it's a demanding climb with a solid elevation gain, making it a true test, even featured in the Giro d'Italia. The road itself, officially called Strada Provinciale 143 (SP143), is typically in pretty good shape. Once you reach the summit, you're greeted with a huge parking lot (you'll need some coins), along with bars, restaurants, and a cozy refuge – the perfect spot to soak in the views. Speaking of views, they're epic. Just a heads-up, though: being up in the mountains, especially closer to Strada Foresta Girgini and Sella di Russis, winter can throw a curveball. Snowfall might lead to temporary closures, particularly up high. So, if you're traveling in late autumn or early spring, be sure to peek at the conditions before you go. Otherwise, get ready for an unforgettable Alpine adventure!
extremeWhere is Shtame Pass?
🇦🇱 Albania
Alright adventure-seekers, listen up! Qafë Shtamë, up in northern Albania where Durrës and Dibër meet, is calling your name. This mountain pass sits pretty at 1,229m (4,032ft) inside Shtamë Pass National Park. Keep an eye out for the obelisk honoring Major Abaz Kupi at the top! This 55.7 km (34.61 miles) route, also known as Qafa e Shtames (or a few other variations), stretches from Fushë-Krujë to Burrel. Now, here's the inside scoop on the drive: the western side (from Fushë-Krujë) is smooth sailing, thanks to fresh pavement from 2016. Get ready for hairpin turns and a seriously twisty ride! BUT, the eastern side is a whole different beast. Think unpaved, rugged terrain demanding a 4x4, plus even MORE hairpin turns and seriously steep climbs. A heads up: back in 1997, there was a tragic explosion at an old ammo storage site on the east side. Just a bit of somber history to keep in mind as you journey through this epic landscape.