The Road to Col de Chaviere is Not for the Faint of Heart
France, europe
7.4 km
2,477 m
hard
Year-round
# Col de Chavière
Tucked away in the heart of France's stunning Vanoise National Park, Col de Chavière rises to a impressive 2,477m (8,126ft) in the Savoie department. This alpine treasure sits in the southeastern Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, surrounded by some serious mountain scenery.
The highlight? The Refuge de Peclet Polset perched at the summit, sitting right near Lac Blanc—a gorgeous glacial-fed lake with that distinctive milky-white color that only glacial meltwater can create.
Fair warning: this isn't your typical mountain drive. The route is entirely unpaved and seriously narrow, with hefty rocks scattered throughout. Private vehicles aren't allowed, so you'll need to be on foot or bike for this adventure.
Starting from a parking area at the end of the paved D124 road, you're looking at a 7.4km (4.59 miles) climb with an elevation gain of 703 meters—that's roughly a 9.5% average grade. Steep? Absolutely. But the payoff is incredible.
Just keep in mind that the Massif de la Vanoise range locks this road down from October through June, so plan your visit for the warmer months when the route's actually passable.
Where is it?
The Road to Col de Chaviere is Not for the Faint of Heart is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.4127, 3.3032
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 7.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,477 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.4127, 3.3032
Related Roads in europe
hardCime Bianche
🇮🇹 Italy
# Cime Bianche: Italy's Alpine Adventure Ready to push your driving skills to the limit? Cime Bianche is a seriously impressive mountain pass sitting at a breathtaking 2,899m (9,511ft) in Italy's Aosta Valley, right in the heart of the Alps. This isn't your typical Sunday drive. The road itself is a rugged, gravel-covered beast—rocky, bumpy, and decidedly tippy in places. If you're an experienced off-road driver who thrives on technical terrain, you'll love the challenge. But if unpaved mountain roads make you nervous, this isn't the one for you. Here's the catch: you've got a super tight window to experience it. The pass is only really driveable at the very end of August when the snow finally clears out. During that brief window, you'll tackle some seriously steep sections—we're talking grades up to 20%—making it one of Italy's most extreme high-altitude routes. You'll absolutely need a 4x4 to even attempt this one. The scenery is stunning, but it comes with real exposure. If heights make your palms sweat, steer clear. Factor in muddy conditions from the chairlift access trail when it's wet, and you've got yourself a legitimate alpine challenge that demands respect and serious driving chops.
moderateCan you drive to Eigerøy Lighthouse?
🇳🇴 Norway
Okay, picture this: you're in Rogaland county, Norway, ready to explore the coastline. Your destination? The historic Eigerøy Lighthouse, perched on the tiny island of Midbrødøya. So, can you drive there? Sort of! The road to Eigerøy fyr is paved the whole way, but hold on tight – it's a super narrow, rollercoaster of a ride with some serious steep climbs and drops. The adventure kicks off from Road Fv65 572 and stretches for about 2.6km (1.61 miles). Here's the catch: you can only drive the first 1.1km. After that, a barrier blocks private vehicles, and you will have to park and walk. The road ends in a parking lot. Backing up might be necessary, so be prepared. Once you're at the lighthouse, you'll be blown away! Established way back in 1854, this impressive 32.9-meter tower boasts one of Europe's most powerful lights, keeping watch over the wild North Sea. Built to guide ships safely along the coast, it now offers overnight stays and a Sunday café in the old lighthouse keeper's residence. Just a heads-up, the area is known for its strong winds, so dress accordingly and get ready for some epic views, especially on a stormy day.
hardCol du Laux
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through the Drôme department in sunny southeastern France, and you stumble upon the Col du Laux. This mountain pass sits pretty at 883 meters (almost 2,900 feet!) above sea level. The road, known as the D316, is paved, so no need for a monster truck. But hold on, it gets a little spicy! This climb is surprisingly steep, so keep your ride in a low gear! The pass connects Chauvac - Laux - Montaux in the west with Laux Montaux to the east. Get ready for some killer views, because this one's a treat for the eyes!
hardDriving the steep scenic road to Seeberg Saddle
🇦🇹 Austria
# Seebergsattel-Jezerski Vrh: A Thrilling Alpine Crossing If you're craving a proper mountain adventure, the Seebergsattel-Jezerski Vrh pass should be high on your list. Sitting at 1,218m (3,996ft), this international crossing straddles the Slovenia-Austria border and serves as the gateway between Austria's Carinthia region and Slovenia's Upper Carniola. The 54.8 km (34.05 miles) journey runs north-south from Sittersdorf in Austria down to Visoko in Slovenia, and trust me, it's not for the faint of heart. The road is fully paved, but "steep" doesn't even begin to cover it—you're looking at constant curves, switchbacks, and seemingly endless hairpin turns that'll keep you gripping the wheel. On the Austrian side, you'll be driving the Seeberg Highway B 82, while the Slovenian section goes by Road 210. What makes it truly special? The setting itself. Nestled high in the Southern Limestone Alps, you're surrounded by some genuinely stunning Alpine scenery. The dramatic landscape, combined with that demanding road, creates an unforgettable driving experience that'll test your skills and reward you with incredible views at every twist and turn.