Rotwand

Rotwand

Germany, europe

Length

11.9 km

Elevation

1,727 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

# Rotwand: A Bavarian Alpine Adventure

Ready for some serious elevation gain? Rotwand is calling your name. This impressive 1,727-meter peak sits in the Miesbach district of Bavaria, making it one of Germany's highest driveable summits and a true gem of the Mangfall Mountains.

The route kicks off from the B307 and climbs 11.9 kilometers of pure gravel and rocky terrain straight to the Rotwandhaus mountain refuge. You're looking at nearly 1,000 meters of elevation gain over that distance—we're talking an average gradient of 7.9%, with a particularly gnarly 700-meter stretch that hits 18%. This is no leisurely Sunday drive.

Weather and altitude will keep you honest no matter what season you tackle this beast. The combination of steep inclines, rugged road conditions, and unpredictable mountain weather means you need to come prepared. But if you've got the chops for it, the views and that sense of accomplishment at the refuge? Absolutely worth it.

Where is it?

Rotwand is located in Germany (europe). Coordinates: 51.6663, 11.2806

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Germany
Continent
europe
Length
11.9 km
Max Elevation
1,727 m
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
51.6663, 11.2806

Related Roads in europe

Why was Caminito del Rey originally built?extreme

Why was Caminito del Rey originally built?

🇪🇸 Spain

Okay, picture this: you're trekking the Caminito del Rey – "The King's Little Path" – clinging to the cliffs between Ardales and El Chorro in Spain. This ain't your average stroll; it's a 3-kilometer rollercoaster for your senses, with almost half of it dangling from sheer rock faces. Originally, it was built by the Sociedad Hidroeléctrica del Chorro so workers could maintain the hydroelectric plants up here. Imagine lugging tools along this thing! Apparently, even King Alfonso XIII himself made an appearance back in the day, hence the fancy name. Now, before its epic restoration, this path was seriously gnarly. Think crumbling concrete, missing sections, and a serious "don't look down" vibe. Sadly, it got a rep for being super dangerous. But don't worry, those days are over! The Málaga Provincial Government stepped in and gave the Caminito a serious makeover. After about a year of intense work, they reopened it, and it became an instant sensation. They even built a visitor center nearby with all the bells and whistles. So, how long does it take? Expect around 3 hours from start to finish, with about 1.5 km on walkways. You'll be walking through the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge, with the Guadalhorce River rushing below. In places, the gorge is only 10 meters wide, while the cliffs tower hundreds of meters above you! Even though it's been restored and has safety features, it’s still thrilling! There are handrails and secure platforms, but it's high, exposed, and definitely not for the faint of heart or those with vertigo. Speaking of safety, follow the rules! No cars allowed, of course. There are shuttle buses that can take you between the north (Ardales) and south (El Chorro) entrances, so you don't have to walk the whole thing twice. To visit, you'll want to book tickets online ahead of time, especially during peak season. Why all the hype? Breathtaking views, a touch of adrenaline, and a walk through some seriously stunning scenery. You might even spot a griffon vulture soaring overhead! And get this – the Caminito's even made it to the silver screen! It's been a backdrop in movies like "Black Butterfly" and "The Bridge of San Luis Rey." Before you go, make sure you're comfy with heights, wear sturdy shoes, and check the weather. This is one hike you won't forget!

Can you drive up the Black Mountains?moderate

Can you drive up the Black Mountains?

🇬🇧 Wales

Black Mountain Road in Carmarthenshire, Wales? Oh, you HAVE to drive it! This legendary stretch of asphalt is a wild mix of twists, dips, and climbs that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. Nestled in the southwestern corner of Wales, snaking through the Black Mountains, the A4069 (that's its official name) is pure driving bliss. Think 23.81 km (14.8 miles) of paved perfection, running from Glanamman to Llangadog. Seriously, for a mountain road, it's surprisingly smooth, with those awesome sections of bends and straights where you can see for miles. Just keep an eye out for wandering sheep – they own the place! And a heads up, sneaky mobile speed cameras sometimes lurk disguised as horse boxes or trucks. Located in the western part of the Brecon Beacons National Park, there are some of the best corners here. Fast sections, tight corners, and views that'll make you weep with joy when you hit the hairpins. If you're in a low rider, watch out for bumps! And you'll top out at 495 m (1,624 ft) above sea level. It's no wonder it's called the best driving road in Wales! Those five most memorable miles you can drive in any country! Ever since Top Gear featured it back in 2011 (aka the 'Top Gear road’), it’s become a must-do for petrolheads. Car magazine test drivers are obsessed, but that means it can get busy, especially on weekends. Expect 35-45 minutes of pure driving heaven if you don't stop, but honestly, you'll want to. The scenery? Mind-blowing. Miles and miles of gorgeous countryside. Make use of the laybys to soak it all in. If you're a driving enthusiast, this road is worth every second!

Col de Chalaishard

Col de Chalais

🇫🇷 France

Col de Chalais is a mountain pass sitting pretty at 930m (3,051ft) in the Isère department of southeastern France. What makes this spot special? The incredibly steep road leading up to it. The route to the top, called Route de Chalais, winds through dense forest on asphalt—though "narrow" is definitely the word here. Heads up: this road gets seriously snowy in winter, so timing your visit matters. The drive tops out near the Monastère de Chalais (also known as Châlais-sur-Voreppe or Notre-Dame de Châlais), a Dominican convent perched at 940m. Starting from the town of Voreppe, you're looking at a 6.7 km ride that climbs 736 meters—that's an average gradient of 11%, which means this thing is *steep*. It's the kind of road that'll have your calves burning if you're cycling it, or your brakes working overtime if you're driving. Either way, it's an unforgettable Alpine experience.

Goderdzi Pass: high clearance and good suspension requiredhard

Goderdzi Pass: high clearance and good suspension required

🇬🇪 Georgia

Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! You HAVE to experience the Goderdzi Pass in Georgia. This bad boy sits way up high at 2,027 meters (that's 6,650 feet!). You'll find it nestled between Adjara and Samtskhe–Javakheti in the southern part of the country. The Batumi-Akhaltsikhe road takes you there, and "picturesque" doesn't even begin to describe it. Fair warning: it's mostly unpaved. I'm talking 4x4 territory, folks. Seriously, you'll want high clearance. Otherwise, prepare for a slow, bumpy ride. Think cows chilling in the road, sneaky landslides, and waterfalls splashing everywhere! This pass ain't for the faint of heart – bring a sturdy vehicle and a good dose of patience. Perched high in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, snow makes it a no-go in winter. The road stretches for about 79.4 km (49.33 miles) from Khulo to Akhaltsikhe. When you finally reach the top, you'll be rewarded with hotels, restaurants, and even a mosque! Get ready for some seriously stunning views.