SC-390 is a Brazilian ludicrously zigzagged road in Serra do Rio do Rastro

# SC-390: Brazil's Epic Mountain Zigzag

Ready for one of the world's most thrilling drives? SC-390, also known as Rodovia Daniel Brüning, is a jaw-dropping roller coaster of a road that winds through the mountains of southeastern Santa Catarina, Brazil. Built way back in 1903, this legendary route has earned its reputation as one of the most famous hairpinned roads on the planet.

Nestled in the Serra do Rio do Rastro mountain range near Lauro Müller, this beast of a road climbs to a dizzying 1,465m (4,806 feet) above sea level. The whole stretch spans just 12.87 km (8 miles), but don't let that fool you—you'll navigate a mind-bending 250 corners while dropping from nearly 4,800 feet to sea level. With an average gradient of 9.2%, it's an adrenaline-pumping adventure that demands respect and concentration.

The scenery? Absolutely stunning. On clear days, you can spot the Atlantic Ocean from up here, roughly 100 km away. The landscape is pure magic: tumbling waterfalls, dramatic canyons, pristine lakes, cascading rapids, and lush native wildlife make this one of Brazil's most gorgeous regions. The road is fully paved and impressively lit by massive windmills that line the route.

This region has a distinctly European vibe—thanks to German and Italian settlers who colonized the area centuries ago. You'll spot charming German-style architecture and notice the fair-skinned locals. The climate here is surprisingly temperate despite the altitude, with annual temperatures averaging around 12°C.

Planning a visit? Go between December and March when summer skies are clearest. Winter fog can be a real headache, though you might encounter some cloud coverage even in summer when cold fronts sweep in from the south. Traffic is blessedly light, so you can really take your time and soak in those jaw-dropping views.