
Where is Altiport de Courchevel?
France, europe
12.2 km
1,260 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to Courchevel Airport, huh? Buckle up for a wild ride! Perched way up in the French Alps at 2,014 meters (that's 6,607 feet!), this isn't your average airport. Think dramatic mountain scenery meets serious piloting skills.
Getting there by car is an adventure in itself. The road winds its way up from Le Praz, starting at 1,260 meters, climbing 754 meters over 12.2 kilometers (about 7.6 miles). Expect some steep sections; the gradient hits almost 10% in places! It’s so epic, the Tour de France has even used it as a stage finish!
Keep in mind, this isn't a trip for the faint of heart. The runway is super short, and it's got a crazy upward slope. Plus, visibility can be tricky. But the views? Absolutely worth it. Just take it slow, and be prepared for an unforgettable experience.
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 12.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,260 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in europe
hardCol de Cloze
🇫🇷 France
Alright, adventure-seekers, listen up! Col de Cloze, sitting pretty in the Hautes-Pyrénées of southwestern France, is calling your name! This beast clocks in at 2,483 meters (8,146 feet), so get ready for some serious altitude. Nestled right in the heart of the Parc national des Pyrénées, getting to the top is an adventure in itself. We’re talking a super-steep, narrow gravel road that demands respect. This isn't one for your everyday sedan; you'll need a 4x4 to conquer this one. Heads up: Mother Nature usually shuts this road down from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road – this one requires your full attention!
hardWhere is Col du Bouchet?
🇫🇷 France
Alright, adventurers, buckle up for Col du Bouchet, a seriously high-altitude peak nestled in the Savoie department of France. We're talking almost 10,000 feet above sea level, making it one of Europe's highest roads! You'll find this beast in the Rhône-Alpes region, specifically in the Val Thorens Ski Resort. Now, heads up, this isn't your typical Sunday drive. The road to the summit is all dirt and gravel, a chairlift access road, and it gets crazy steep in spots. Picture this: you're following ski-lift service roads, winding your way up to the cable car station, which sits at a mind-blowing altitude. Expect narrow passages and some serious inclines (like, up to 22%!). The climb is just over 3 miles long, but you'll gain a whopping 2,300+ feet of elevation, with an average gradient of 13.8%. And pro tip: Don't even think about attempting this between October and June. This high up in the Massif de la Vanoise range, the road's buried under snow. But when it's open, the views? Absolutely epic.
moderateTake An Unforgettable Drive to Fjarðarheiði in Iceland
🇮🇸 Iceland
Okay, adventure-seekers, let's talk about Fjarðarheiði! This mountain pass in Eastern Iceland clocks in at a cool 623 meters (that's 2,043 feet for my imperial system friends). The entire route is paved, following Route 93 as it snakes its way up. Be warned: there are some seriously steep sections! Word to the wise: Iceland's weather can be WILD, so ALWAYS check the forecast before you head out. Snow can make this pass a real challenge for a good chunk of the year. Speaking of views, when the fog isn't playing peek-a-boo, this drive is absolutely breathtaking! The pass itself stretches for 24.5 km (or 15.22 miles) connecting Egilsstaðir (right on the Lagarfljót river) to the charming town of Seyðisfjörður, nestled deep in its namesake fjord. Expect the drive to take around 30-45 minutes if you're cruising straight through. Buckle up and get ready for some stunning Icelandic scenery!
moderateWhere is Suur Munamagi?
🌍 Estonia
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Võru County in Estonia, headed for Suur Munamägi – that's "Big Egg Mountain" to us English speakers! This peak is near the village of Haanja in the southeastern corner of Estonia. The road leading up is paved, making for a smooth ride, but be warned: it's pretty narrow in places. Heads up though, the final 450 meters is off-limits to cars unless you have a special permit. But trust me, it's worth it! Once you're at the top, you'll find a 95-foot observation tower. Climb to the top for absolutely incredible views of Estonian nature and the Vormaa region. We're talking a 50 km range, so you can really soak it all in. There's also a cafe for a coffee and snack, and another burger and fudge place back on the main road for a post-view treat. Plus, being at the highest point in the Baltics? It's a total bucket-list experience!