Where is Alpe d'Huez?
France, europe
13.8 km
1,859 m
hard
Year-round
Alpe d’Huez: the legendary Tour de France climb! You'll find this ski resort nestled in the French Alps, in the Isère département. We're talking a lofty 1,860m (6,100ft) above sea level, right in the heart of the Oisans region's Romanche valley.
The D211, the road to the top, is all smooth asphalt, open year-round (though snow might close it temporarily in winter). In summer, get ready to share the road with tons of cyclists – it's a seriously popular climb!
Why all the hype? Well, the road throws some seriously steep sections at you, hitting a maximum gradient of 13% in places. Alpe d'Huez is known as 'l'Isle du Soleil' (The Island of the Sun), but don't let the name fool you, this climb is relentless!
Starting in Le Bourg d'Oisans, the ascent is a beastly 13.8 km (8.6 mi) long, with an average gradient of 8.1%. The views are fantastic, and once you get to the Alpe d'Huez ski resort at the top, you’ll know you've accomplished something special. And, each of the 21 hairpin bends is named after a Tour de France stage winner, a cool tribute to cycling history!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 13.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,859 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
hardWhere is Carretera del Cañarete?
🇪🇸 Spain
Cruising the Carretera del Cañarete is a must-do if you're exploring southeastern Spain! This coastal gem snakes along the cliffs of the Sierra de Gádor in Almería, Andalucía. Construction kicked off way back in 1865, and it's been wowing travelers ever since. Officially known as N-340a, this 9 km (5.59 miles) stretch is part of the longer N-340, tracing the ancient Via Augusta. Be warned, it's a popular route, seeing almost 10,000 vehicles daily! While the views are incredible, with the road clinging dramatically to the cliffs offering stunning coastal vistas, it's worth noting the area's prone to rockslides. The geology's a bit fragile thanks to fractures, softer spots, and the constant battering from water, wind, and seismic activity. Pro tip: Drive from Aguadulce to Almería! This way, you'll bypass the newer tunnels and stick to the original road, hugging those stunning cliffs. There are even a few parking spots where you can pull over and soak it all in. Sunset is pure magic here, so time your drive accordingly for unforgettable views!
hard1. Prepare for Rapid Micro-Climate Shifts
🇬🇧 England
Okay, so you're thinking about tackling some proper English countryside roads? Awesome! It's stunning, but heads-up, it's a different beast than the motorways. Here's the lowdown: **Micro-Climate Mayhem:** Seriously, pack layers. One minute it's sunny, the next you're in a cloud. Especially in places like the Peak District. That coastal mist, called "haar," can appear out of nowhere. Waterproofs are non-negotiable. **Single-Track Shenanigans:** Get ready for narrow lanes with passing places. A private vehicle is your best bet to really explore, but fill up whenever you see a pump! And if you're relying on public transport to get out of the city, book your train tickets in advance! **Plug It In:** No need to stress about different plugs. The UK uses the Type G (three-pin) plug everywhere. Just bring a surge protector; rural power can be a bit temperamental. **Lost in Translation?:** While everyone speaks English, those accents can be *strong*. Chatting with locals in pubs is the best way to get the real scoop on road conditions. They'll know if a road's "drifted" (blocked with snow) or if a "beck" (stream) is flooded. **Need a Doc?:** Dial 999 for emergencies. For non-urgent advice, 111 is your number. Emergency care is free, but travel insurance is a must for everything else. Remember, ambulances might take a while to reach you on those winding roads. **Timing is Everything:** Avoid driving during rush hour (7:30-9:30 am and 4:30-6:30 pm). You'll be stuck behind tractors and local traffic, and reversing on those narrow lanes is no fun. Aim for mid-morning or early afternoon. **Country Manners:** Tipping isn't a huge thing, but 10% in restaurants is appreciated. Pubs are more casual; just "keep the change." Most importantly, *use those passing places* and give other drivers a wave! It's just good form. The English countryside is gorgeous, but it demands respect. Be prepared, drive carefully, and enjoy the ride!
moderateİkizkaya Tepesi
🇹🇷 Turkey
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're anywhere near Artvin Province in Turkey's Black Sea region and you've got a serious craving for off-the-beaten-path thrills, you HAVE to check out İkizkaya Tepesi. We're talking a mountain pass that tops out at a whopping 2,726 meters (that's 8,943 feet!). This isn't your average cruise. The road is gravel, rocky, and bumpy, and you'll be navigating some seriously exposed drop-offs. Translation? You need a 4x4 and your A-game. Fair warning: this beast is usually snowed in from October through June, so plan your trip accordingly. But trust me, if you're up for the challenge, the views are absolutely worth it. Just keep your eyes on the road…and maybe don't look down!
moderateWhere is Karakaya Hill?
🇹🇷 Turkey
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Wanna hit one of the highest roads in Turkey? Head to Erzurum Province and set your GPS for Karakaya Hill. This peak punches way up there at 3,148 meters (10,328 feet)! What awaits you at the top? Only Turkey's largest and first infrared telescope, housed in the Doğu Anadolu Gözlemevi (Eastern Anatolia Observatory) – a seriously cool astronomical research center. Think cutting-edge tech, space exploration vibes, and maybe even a peek at the cosmos (weather permitting!). The road itself? It’s an 18.8 km (11.68 miles) climb, so buckle up. You'll gain a whopping 1,206 meters in elevation, giving you an average gradient of 6.41%. The road is paved and in excellent condition till Ejder 3200 Ski Resort. But hold on! The section from the resort to the observatory turns into a bumpy, unpaved beast. A high-clearance vehicle is definitely your friend here. Keep in mind, this is high-altitude territory. Expect heavy snowfall, low humidity, and freezing temperatures, especially during winter. But hey, those are the *perfect* conditions for stargazing! So, if you're up for a challenging drive with stellar views (pun intended), Karakaya Hill is calling your name.