
The road to Passo Scimfuss, a chillout in high mountains
Switzerland, europe
3.7 km
2,242 m
hard
Year-round
# Passo Scimfuss
Perched at 2,242 meters (7,355 feet) above sea level in Ticino's Leventina district, Passo Scimfuss—also known as Passo Scipscius—is a hidden gem for adventurous drivers in Switzerland.
The road up is a thrilling mix of paved and gravel sections that'll keep you on your toes. Expect steep grades (hitting up to 9.0% on some sections), tight hairpin bends, and a road that's impressively narrow in places. The pass itself is unmarked and not super obvious geographically, but don't let that fool you—it's passable most of the year. Winter weather can occasionally shut things down, so check conditions before you head out.
Starting from St. Gotthard Pass, you're looking at a 3.7-kilometer (2.29-mile) push upward with 148 meters of elevation gain. The average gradient sits around 4%, which sounds manageable until you hit those steeper pitches. But here's the payoff: absolutely stunning panoramic views over Valle Bedretto and the surrounding mountain ranges make every twist and turn worth it. If you're craving a challenging alpine drive with serious scenery, this one delivers.
Where is it?
The road to Passo Scimfuss, a chillout in high mountains is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 47.1068, 8.0693
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 3.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,242 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 47.1068, 8.0693
Related Roads in europe
extremeWhere is Col du Parquetout?
🇫🇷 France
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, let's talk Col du Parquétout! You'll find this beauty tucked away in the Isère department of France, part of the stunning Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The D212F, as it's known, stretches for about 9.8 km (or 6.08 miles) from Villelonge to Les Angelas. Trust me, the views to the south are postcard-perfect – rolling hills and valleys that'll make you want to pull over and soak it all in. Luckily, there's a small parking area at the top just for that. Now, a little heads-up: this isn't your Sunday afternoon drive. The road is paved, sure, but it's bumpy, narrow, and has some loose gravel sections that'll keep you on your toes. It’s all fun and games until you meet another car! Expect hairpin turns, some seriously steep gradients (up to 13.3%!), and absolutely no guardrails. I'd say it's more of a motorcycle road, but if you're up for a challenge and in decent shape, a car can definitely make it. Just be prepared for a wild ride!
hardHighest roads of England
🇬🇧 England
Okay, picture this: you're in England, right? Forget the rolling green hills and cozy villages for a sec. We're heading North and West, where things get *epic*. Think dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, and seriously awesome driving roads. I'm talking about places like the Lake District and the Pennines, where the terrain is seriously challenging, but the views? Totally worth it. It's up here, winding through these remote moorlands and over high mountain passes, that you'll find England's highest paved roads. These roads aren't just high, they're an experience. York's Hill will test your brakes with some of the steepest gradients in the country. Then there's Buttertubs Pass, a real showstopper and arguably the most spectacular road in England, twisting and turning through stunning scenery. Get ready for an adventure!
hardThe ultimate guide to exploring Gorges de la Restonica in Corsica by car
🇫🇷 France
# Gorges de la Restonica: Corsica's Hidden Canyon Drive Ready for one of Corsica's most stunning scenic drives? Head to the Haute-Corse department and take on the D623, a fully paved 14.9 km (9.25 miles) adventure that winds from Corte up through the breathtaking Restonica Valley. Fair warning: this isn't your average leisurely cruise. The road gets seriously narrow in places—we're talking barely wider than a single car in spots. As the gorge walls squeeze in around you, you'll need sharp focus and solid mountain driving skills. The views are absolutely gorgeous, but those steep drops demand respect. Also note that vehicles over 4.5 meters long or 1.9 meters wide aren't permitted, so check your rental beforehand. Summer season brings crowds, and that means congestion on these tight lanes. It's manageable if you stay patient and keep your eyes on the road. The good news? There are restaurants and rest stops scattered along the way where you can grab food or take a refreshing dip in the river. Once you've conquered the drive, park it and hit the trails. A two-hour hike gets you to Lac de Mélo, a gorgeous mountain lake sitting at 6,528 feet. Push further and you'll reach Lac de Capitello, which often stays snow-capped well into summer—or stays frozen entirely outside peak season. This drive rewards confident drivers with some of Corsica's most spectacular alpine scenery.
extremeTake the Brutal Via del Sole and Discover Punta Veleno
🇮🇹 Italy
# Punta Veleno: Italy's Most Gloriously Brutal Mountain Pass Perched at 1,171 meters (3,841 feet) above sea level in Verona Province, Veneto, Punta Veleno is basically the mountain pass that makes you question your life choices—especially if you're attempting it by bike. ## The Road (If You Can Call It That) Via del Sole is a teeth-grindingly narrow, fully paved ribbon of pavement that climbs 10.7 km (6.64 miles) from Porto to Prada Alta. Fair warning: only one vehicle can pass at a time, and that's if everyone's being polite. The pass features 21 numbered hairpin turns—each one a little gift from the mountain gods—with gradients hitting a stomach-dropping 25%. Buses, trucks, RVs, automatics, and scooters? Not welcome here. ## The Views (Your Only Consolation) Hugging the eastern shore of Lago di Garda above the village of Brenzone, this route delivers knee-wobbling drop-offs straight down to Italy's largest lake. It's breathtaking in the most literal sense—both from the scenery and the sheer effort. ## The Real Challenge Don't let the total distance fool you. The middle 6.5 km is absolutely relentless, averaging over 14% gradient with some sections hitting nearly 25%. Those first and eighth turns? Prepare your quads. This is officially one of Italy's toughest climbs, earning legendary status from Giro d'Italia icon Vincenzo Torriani back in the '70s. The race has featured this punisher multiple times, and honestly? That tells you everything you need to know.