
Where are the Gorges de la Meouge?
France, europe
10 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Hautes-Alpes department of France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, ready for an adventure. You're about to hit the Gorges de la Méouge, a spectacular canyon carved by the Méouge river itself!
This isn't just any drive; it's a 10km (6.21 miles) stretch of pure "balcony road" bliss. Think dramatic views as you wind along the D942, linking Le Plan and Barret-sur-Méouge. But fair warning: this baby is narrow! We're talking squeeze-past-each-other narrow, especially in the unlit tunnel. Two medium-sized cars? Forget about it.
The road is entirely paved, so no need for a 4x4. But it's carved right into the mountainside. This road is not for the faint of heart; if heights make you sweat, maybe sit this one out. But if you're brave enough, the views are SO worth it. And when you need a break, the Méouge river is right there, begging you for a refreshing dip. Trust me, this one's a stunner!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 10 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
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