Stralegg

Stralegg

Switzerland, europe

Length

2.5 km

Elevation

1,675 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

# Stralegg Pass: A Thrilling Alpine Adventure

Nestled in the stunning Appenzell Alps of Switzerland's St. Gallen canton, just a stone's throw from the Liechtenstein border, Stralegg Pass sits at a breathtaking 1,675 meters (5,495 feet). This isn't your average mountain drive鈥攊t's an adrenaline-pumping experience that'll test both your skills and nerves.

Fair warning: this road is seriously steep and cramped. You'll be navigating hairpin turns and switchbacks with a gnarly 18% gradient that'll have your hands gripping the wheel. Most of the route is paved (thank goodness), but brace yourself for the final 2.5km where the road transitions to gravel. It's rough, it's rustic, and it's absolutely wild.

If you're after jaw-dropping Alpine scenery combined with an edge-of-your-seat driving experience, Stralegg delivers on both fronts. Just make sure you're confident behind the wheel before tackling this beast鈥攊t's not for the faint of heart!

Where is it?

Stralegg is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.6986, 8.3422

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Road Details

Country
Switzerland
Continent
europe
Length
2.5 km
Max Elevation
1,675 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
46.6986, 8.3422

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