The Challenging Road to Pian del Re in the Cottian Alps
Italy, europe
11 km
2,020 m
moderate
Year-round
# Pian del Re: A High-Alpine Adventure
Tucked away in Italy's Piedmont region, Pian del Re sits pretty at 2,020m (6,627ft) in the Province of Cuneo, nestled within the stunning Valle Po. This high mountain plateau is basically the real deal for alpine enthusiasts—you'll find a spacious parking lot, a cozy mountain refuge, and a handful of buildings waiting for you at the top. The Rifugio Albergo is genuinely your go-to spot for launching epic adventures, especially if you're tackling the legendary Giro del Monviso loop.
Fun fact: the plateau's name supposedly dates back to when French forces hung around during Francis I's reign, before things got complicated with the Duchy of Savoy.
## The Road Itself
The 11 km (6.83 miles) climb from Crissolo is totally paved and pushes you up 878m with an average gradient of about 8%—definitely a workout, but totally doable. You're cruising on Strada Provinciale 234, which stays in solid condition the whole way up. The road's wider and more forgiving between Crissolo and Paesana, but heads get real narrow in those final 3 km leading to the plateau. Traffic's light (trucks aren't allowed anyway), which is awesome for enjoying the scenery.
## What You Need to Know
The road only opens between June and October, so plan accordingly. Because you're deep in the Cottian Alps, chains or snow tires might be necessary even during the open season. Bring your best driving skills and respect the mountain—it's absolutely worth it.
Where is it?
The Challenging Road to Pian del Re in the Cottian Alps is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.1746, 12.4752
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 11 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,020 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 42.1746, 12.4752
Related Roads in europe
hardCol de Platé
🇫🇷 France
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Col de Platé is calling your name. This isn't your average Sunday drive; we're talking about a high-mountain pass sitting pretty at 2,362 meters (that's 7,749 feet!) in the Haute-Savoie department of southeastern France. Now, picture this: a gravel service road that's rocky, bumpy, and ready to test your off-roading skills. This isn't a road for the faint of heart! You'll definitely need a 4x4 to tackle this steep, unpaved trail. And, pro tip: avoid it completely in winter when it becomes totally impassable. Imagine conquering this beast, though! Just remember, if heights make your palms sweat, maybe sit this one out. Wet conditions can turn the road into a muddy slip-n-slide, especially as you near the top of those ski slopes. But, if you're an experienced wheeler looking for a challenge with insane views, Col de Platé might just be your next unforgettable adventure.
hardCol du Marchairuz
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Col du Marchairuz Nestled in Switzerland's Vaud canton within the Jura Mountains, Col du Marchairuz sits pretty at 1,447 meters (4,747 feet) above sea level. This charming mountain pass connects Le Brassus and Bière with a narrow, twisty asphalt road that'll definitely get your adrenaline pumping—especially with that gnarly 14% gradient in places. Coming up from Le Brassus? You're looking at a 7 km climb that'll gain you 411 meters of elevation, averaging around 5.9% grade. If you're tackling it from the Bière side instead, buckle up for a more intense 9.6 km push with 697 meters of elevation gain and a steeper 7% average—but trust us, it's worth every pedal stroke (or gear shift, depending on your ride). Once you crest the summit, you'll find yourself surrounded by a picture-perfect alpine landscape. Colorful wildflower meadows stretch across rolling terrain, dense forests frame the views, and on clear days? You'll catch stunning vistas of Lac Léman and the Savoyan Alps sprawling out before you. It's seriously gorgeous. Feeling peckish after your climb? There's a hotel and restaurant right at the top, so you can refuel and soak in those panoramic views from a comfortable seat. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or just love scenic drives, this pass is an absolute gem.
hardJF-7038: a fabulous road if you are not scared of heights
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through southern Spain, in the Jaén province of Andalusia. You veer off the JF-7016 and find yourself on the JF-7038, a totally amazing road snaking through the Segura valley. This paved ribbon of asphalt is your ticket to some seriously stunning scenery. We're talking a narrow mountain road hugging the Segura River, with incredible views of the Embalse de Anchuricas-Miller reservoir. Spooky fact: beneath those waters lies the drowned village of Las Casicas, and you can still spot the old church! The whole adventure is about 42.6 km (26.47 miles) of pure bliss, ending at the A63 on the border with Albacete. Nestled in the Sierra de Segura mountains, within the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park, this road is no walk in the park. It's a bit of a challenge, especially along the reservoir where it gets super narrow. But trust me, the insane views more than make up for it. Imagine driving through tunnels of trees, with vistas that will blow your mind. You'll likely have the road almost entirely to yourself, as there's barely any traffic. You can hit this road year-round, but be warned: it might be closed temporarily in winter if the weather gets dicey.
moderateMonte Colmo
🇮🇹 Italy
# Monte Colmo Tucked away in Lombardy's stunning High Camonica valley, Monte Colmo is a serious alpine challenge sitting pretty at 1,933 meters (6,341 feet). This mountain pass in Italy's Brescia province isn't messing around—it's a real test of your driving skills and nerves. The paved route, Via Monte Colmo, climbs an intense 12.5 kilometers starting from the charming town of Edolo (675m). What makes this pass particularly thrilling? Several tunnels punctuate the ascent, including one seriously long stretch that's unlit—so definitely pack some headlights and a sense of adventure. With an average gradient of 9.4% and sections hitting a brutal 12%, this isn't your casual Sunday drive. The consistent, punishing climbs demand respect and attention, making every hairpin and switchback feel like you've earned it. If you're after authentic alpine driving with real elevation gains and dramatic mountain scenery, Monte Colmo delivers the goods.