
The inhumane Devil’s Staircase in Wales with 21% ramps
Wales, europe
26.55 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, because the Devil's Staircase in Wales is an absolute beast! This legendary old drover's track winds for about 16.5 miles between Abergwesyn and Tregaron, right in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains. You'll feel totally lost in the best way possible – like you're the only person for miles!
Seriously, this route, also known as Abergwesyn Road, is a contender for the best driving road in Wales. Prepare for a wild ride on a single-track road that’s seriously narrow and twisty. Watch out, though, because the pavement can get pretty rough, especially in the middle section where it turns to gravel. If the idea of navigating super-tight mountain roads makes you nervous, this might not be your cup of tea.
The "Devil's Staircase" part is the real kicker: a series of hairpin turns with gradients reaching a butt-clenching 20.1%! The whole thing climbs to Abergwesyn Pass, taking you through dense forests and out into these huge, empty valleys where sheep are living their best lives. Just remember, that descent is going to put your brakes to the ultimate test! Oh, and heads up: there are a couple of bridges right before the Staircase that can vanish underwater after heavy rain. Weekdays are usually quiet, but weekends can get a bit crowded.
Where is it?
The inhumane Devil’s Staircase in Wales with 21% ramps is located in Wales (europe). Coordinates: 54.2137, -2.2902
Road Details
- Country
- Wales
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 26.55 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 54.2137, -2.2902
Related Roads in europe
hardAgnel Pass is one of the European highest paved roads
🇫🇷 France
# Col Agnel-Colle dell'Agnello Ready for an Alpine adventure? This stunning international mountain pass sits at a whopping 2,744m (9,003ft) and straddles the French-Italian border in the gorgeous Queyras Regional Natural Park. It's the gateway between the Hautes-Alpes in southeastern France and the Cuneo province in Italy's Piedmont region. The fully paved route stretches 35.2km (21.87 miles) from the charming French village of Molines-en-Queyras down to Casteldelfino in Italy. Known as the D205T in France and SP251 in Italy, it's seriously one of the Alps' highest roads. Plan on spending about 1 to 1.2 hours driving it without stops—though honestly, you'll want to linger at that tiny summit parking lot for the absolutely insane panoramic views. Fair warning though: this pass is a seasonal beast. Expect it to be snowed in from late October through late June or early July, so timing is everything. Once you're up there, the narrow sections and intense 15% gradients will keep you on your toes. Rock slides are a real concern, and heavy vehicles are banned for good reason. This isn't some tourist trap either—despite being the highest international pass in the Alps, it flies under the radar compared to other Alpine crossings. But the cycling world knows it well: both the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France have tackled this beast, with the Tour featuring it back in 2008 after a fresh resurfacing.
moderateWhere are the Kissing Rocks?
🇨🇭 Switzerland
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through the Swiss Alps in the Maloja Region, near the Italian border in Val Bregaglia. Keep an eye out for the legendary "Kissing Rocks," a natural landmark you can literally drive through! Route 3 slices right between these geological sweethearts. The road stretches about 19 kilometers (or nearly 12 miles) from Bregaglia, Switzerland, all the way to Chiavenna in Italy. Word to the wise: parking spots are scarce, so snag one quick if you're hoping to hop out, explore, and snap some postcard-worthy shots. Trust me, you'll want to remember this unique drive!
hardWhere is Passo Cereda?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: Passo Cereda, perched at a cool 1,361 meters (4,465 feet), straddling the line between Trentino Alto Adige and Veneto in northern Italy. This isn't just any drive; it's an adventure on Strada Statale 347 (SS347). The road's typically smooth, but heads up – some curves get seriously narrow, especially winding through villages. Blind corners are the name of the game here, so keep your eyes peeled! Clocking in at 31 kilometers (19 miles), this east-to-west route starts near Fiera di Primiero (in Trentino) and ends close to Gosaldo (in the Province of Belluno). The whole time, you’re cruising along the southern slopes of the Pale di San Martino mountains. Seriously epic scenery, folks!
moderateWhere are the highest pubs in the UK? A guide to the ultimate road trip stops
🇬🇧 Scotland
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along the D915, better known as the Col du Parpaillon, deep in the French Alps. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a 90 km (56 mile) stretch of mostly unpaved road that'll test your nerves and your suspension. The payoff? Epic alpine scenery that'll have you reaching for your camera every five minutes. The road peaks at a dizzying 2,780 meters (9,121 feet), so be prepared for some thin air. The real kicker? A narrow, unlit tunnel near the top. Seriously, bring a flashlight! Expect gravel, potholes, and maybe even some snow, depending on the time of year. Not for the faint of heart, but an unforgettable adventure for those who dare!