
Sommet de la Saulire, one of the highest roads of France
France, europe
N/A
2,697 m
hard
Year-round
# Sommet de la Saulire
Ready for some real Alpine adventure? Sommet de la Saulire sits at a seriously impressive 2,697m (8,848ft) in the stunning Massif de la Vanoise range, nestled in the Savoie department of the French Alps. This is legitimately one of France's highest roads—no casual Sunday drive here.
The unpaved route winds through Vanoise National Park with all the character you'd expect: gravel, rocks, and plenty of bumpy sections that'll keep you on your toes. This isn't a road for the faint of heart (literally—those mountain views drop off dramatically). You'll need solid experience with mountain driving on unimproved surfaces, because the steep grades and muddy patches when it rains are no joke.
Fair warning: this road is completely impassable from October through May, so summer trips only. If you're uncomfortable with heights or haven't tackled gnarly mountain roads before, skip this one. But if you're an experienced driver looking for an unforgettable Alpine challenge? This is your call.
The payoff? Stunning panoramic views across the Vanoise and a proper restaurant (Le Panoramic) waiting for you at the summit to refuel and soak it all in.
Where is it?
Sommet de la Saulire, one of the highest roads of France is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.0510, 3.4655
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,697 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.0510, 3.4655
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