Travel guide to the top of Col des Embrasures
France, europe
N/A
2,305 m
moderate
Year-round
# Col des Embrasures
Want to experience something truly wild? Head to the Savoie department in southeastern France, where you'll find Col des Embrasures perched at a jaw-dropping 2,305 meters (7,562 feet) in the Cottian Alps, practically on the doorstep of Italy.
Here's the deal: this isn't your typical paved mountain pass. The route is an old military track, completely unpaved and absolutely brutal in winter when snow shuts it down entirely. Seriously, this is 4x4 and Enduro bike territory only, and after heavy rain, you can forget about access altogether. But if conditions are right? The ride is genuinely rewarding with absolutely stunning alpine views.
The real draw is Le Fort de la Redoute waiting at the summit. Built way back in 1630 by the House of Savoy, it originally went by the name Fort Traverset. When France absorbed Savoy in 1860, they weren't taking chances with their Italian neighbors鈥攁 brand new fort went up in 1892 as a defensive stronghold. Fast forward to World War II, and this strategic border position became the scene of intense fighting. Today, the fort is off-limits due to structural concerns, but the history saturating this place is palpable.
The steep, narrow climb rewards you with incredible scenery and centuries of European history. This one's definitely for the adventurous types who appreciate both a challenging route and a good story.
Where is it?
Travel guide to the top of Col des Embrasures is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 47.1191, 2.5088
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,305 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 47.1191, 2.5088
Related Roads in europe
moderateAlp Curtginatsch
馃嚚馃嚟 Switzerland
# Alp Curtginatsch: A Swiss Alpine Adventure Nestled in the heart of Graub眉nden's Hinterrhein district, Alp Curtginatsch is an absolute gem for mountain enthusiasts. This high alpine pass sits at a breezy 2,274 meters (7,460 feet), offering those incredible thin-air views that make the drive worthwhile. Here's the good news: the road is almost entirely paved, making it surprisingly accessible for a mountain pass of this caliber. The only catch? The final kilometer or so transitions to unpaved terrain, but don't let that discourage you鈥攊t's in great condition and totally manageable for most vehicles. Whether you're chasing that perfect alpine photography spot or just looking for an exhilarating drive through the Swiss mountains, Alp Curtginatsch delivers on both fronts. The journey up is rewarding, and the scenery? Absolutely breathtaking.
moderateWhere is Cucurb膬ta Mare?
馃嚪馃嚧 Romania
Okay, so you're up for an adventure in Romania, right? Let me tell you about Cucurb膬ta Mare, also known as Bihor Peak. This peak straddles Alba and Bihor counties in the Bihor Mountains. First off, getting to the top is... intense. We're talking a 10.7 km (6.64 miles) dirt track from the DN75 highway, climbing 967 meters to an altitude of 1,829 m (6,000 ft). That's a 9.03% average gradient, so you will definitely want a 4x4. The road is a bit of a nightmare, honestly. Be prepared for a bumpy ride! But trust me, once you conquer it, those views are *chef's kiss*. You can see the whole Apuseni Mountains, the Arie葯 Valley, and on a clear day, even as far as 葮tei. Keep in mind, this road is usually a no-go in winter. Even in summer, pack a jacket because it gets chilly up there! At the summit you will find a television and telecommunications relay.
moderateDriving the dizzying paved road to Coll de Portill贸 on the Spanish-French border
馃嚜馃嚫 Spain
# Col du Portillon-Coll de Portill贸 Ready for some serious Pyrenees vibes? The Col du Portillon-Coll de Portill贸 sits pretty at 1,293 meters (4,242 feet) straddling the France-Spain border between Haute-Garonne in southwestern France and Lleida in Catalonia. The summit marks the exact border crossing, so you're literally hopping between countries as you drive. This 17-kilometer (10.56-mile) east-west route connects the charming village of Boss貌st in Aran with the spa town of Bagn猫res-de-Luchon, and the entire road is beautifully paved. You'll tackle it as the D618A from the French side or the N-141 from Spain. Now, here's the thing鈥攖his pass is famous for a reason. Twenty hairpin turns snake their way up the mountain, offering incredible views but definitely testing your nerve. If tight curves and altitude make you queasy, this might not be your vibe. But if you love a thrilling drive, you're in for a treat. The road has even earned its stripes as a Tour de France cycling route, so you know it's legit. The Pyrenees setting is spectacular year-round, and the pass typically stays open throughout the year. Just be aware that winter can bring temporary closures, so always check conditions before heading up. If you're chasing alpine scenery and don't mind a challenging drive, this col is absolutely worth the detour.
moderateHow long is Estrada Nacional 222?
馃嚨馃嚬 Portugal
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Portugal's North Region on Estrada Nacional 222, specifically the 21 km (13.29 miles) stretch from Peso da R茅gua to Pinh茫o. This isn't just any road; it was crowned the world's best back in 2015! Give yourself around 35-45 minutes to soak it all in, and prepare for a wild ride with 93 bends that'll keep you on your toes. This road plunges you straight into the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of Porto wine country. Imagine driving through terraced hillsides, vineyards cascading down to the river鈥攊t's jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. The road offers insane views over the river as you approach the charming wine town of Pinh茫o. It's an experience that鈥檚 totally worth it, blending thrilling driving with postcard-perfect landscapes. Just be prepared for some seriously steep climbs!