The iconic road to Col de la Bonette in the French Alps

# Col de la Bonette: France's Ultimate Alpine Adventure

Ready for an adrenaline-pumping Alpine experience? Head to Col de la Bonette, perched at a jaw-dropping 2,715m (8,907ft) in southeast France's stunning Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Straddling the border between Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments within the gorgeous Mercantour National Park, this legendary pass connects the Ubaye Valley and Tinée Valley—and it's absolutely unmissable if you're chasing mountain thrills.

What makes this route so special? The entire D64 (part of the famous Route des Grandes Alpes) is completely paved, making it accessible year-round—well, technically. You'll find yourself driving on a beautifully maintained, wide road that's seriously steep and packed with incredible sensations. It's the kind of drive that makes your heart race in the best possible way.

The scenery? Phenomenal. Nestled beside Cime de la Bonette and running parallel to Col d'Allos and Col de la Cayolle, you're surrounded by some of Europe's most dramatic Alpine landscapes. Fair warning though: while a sign at the base claims this is "Europe's highest road," that's not quite accurate—but it's certainly among the highest in the country.

**Plan your visit wisely:** The road typically closes from late October through June or early July due to heavy snow, so aim for summer driving. History buffs will appreciate that what started as a humble mule track in the 1800s became a fully completed road in 1960, and it's even graced the Tour de France circuit.

Cyclists, take note: the 24km ascent from Jausiers gains 1,589m (average 6.6% gradient with sections hitting 11%), while the Saint Etienne de Tinée route stretches 25.8km with 1,652m elevation gain (6.4% average, peaking at 15%). Helpful kilometer markers dot both sides of the road, showing elevation and distance milestones.