Where is Blockhaus?
Italy, europe
2.3 km
2,072 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're in Abruzzo, smack-dab in central Italy's stunning Parco Nazionale della Majella, and you're headed for Blockhaus – a mountain peak reaching almost 7,000 feet! Why "Blockhaus?" Turns out, back in the 1800s, there was a stone fort built here to keep bandits at bay. Now, all that's left is the foundation, but the name stuck.
At the top, you'll find a little square, a tiny chapel, the remains of the old fort, and even a bandit's "Table," an inscription from way back in 1867!
The final 3.7 miles to the top of Blockhaus is on the SP64, but here's the deal: private cars can't go the last 1.4 miles! This stretch climbs 1,391 feet, so get ready for an average gradient that'll definitely test your legs.
Keep in mind, you're way up in the Apennines! The road's generally open, but snow can close it down during winter. So, pack accordingly, charge your camera, and get ready for some seriously incredible views!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 2.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,072 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
moderateWhere is Hitler's bridge?
🌍 Czech Republic
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Czech Republic, and you stumble upon something totally unexpected – the Borovsko Bridge, aka "Hitler's Bridge" or the "Czech Avignon." Nestled in the Benešov District, this concrete marvel is a seriously cool historical oddity. Back in 1939, Hitler kicked off this project as part of his grand highway plan, but things got a little sidetracked with, you know, World War II. Construction was on and off, and even though the bridge was eventually finished in the 50s, the highway leading to it never materialized! Now, here's the kicker: in 1976, they flooded the area, turning it into a reservoir. The lower parts of the bridge are now underwater! Talk about a forgotten piece of history. Sadly, you can't actually *drive* on it anymore. The whole lake district is off-limits to protect the drinking water, so this beauty is more of a "look but don't touch" kinda situation. Hidden in the Bohemian-Moravian Highland forests, it's a eerie reminder of a bygone era. Still, pretty awesome scenery, right?
moderateShipka Pass
🌍 Bulgaria
# Shipka Pass: Bulgaria's Most Historic Mountain Drive Sitting pretty at 1,185 meters, Shipka Pass cuts right through the Balkan Mountains and connects the charming Rose Valley town of Kazanlak with Gabrovo up north. But here's what makes this route truly special – it's basically Bulgaria's Mount Rushmore moment. This is where some seriously intense battles went down during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78, ultimately freeing Bulgaria from Ottoman control. Heavy stuff. The southern approach is genuinely thrilling, winding through lush beech and oak forests with a jaw-dropping 17 hairpin bends that'll keep you gripping the steering wheel. Just when you think you've conquered it all, you'll spot the Freedom Monument – a stunning 31.5-meter stone tower that's basically a giant tribute to the Bulgarian and Russian soldiers who refused to budge when the Ottoman army showed up. Climb up here and you get these absolutely stunning vistas spreading out across the Rose Valley, where locals have been growing those famous damask roses and producing liquid gold (aka rose oil) for centuries. Once you head down the northern side through the Uzana recreation area, you'll understand why locals rave about this road. It's honestly one of Bulgaria's best drives – the kind of route that hits every note: dramatic peaks, incredible views, and enough history to keep you thinking about it for weeks.
extremeWhere is Sa Calobra Road?
🇪🇸 Spain
Picture this: you're on Mallorca, the sun is shining, and you're about to tackle Sa Calobra Road. This isn't your average coastal drive. Think of it as eight miles of pure, winding madness carved into the island's rocky northwest corner, east of Port de Sóller. This fully paved rollercoaster, officially the MA-2141, climbs to a peak of 2,237 feet. What makes it special? The road builders avoided tunnels like the plague, resulting in a series of switchbacks and gradients steeper than 7% in many spots. Hold on tight for the "Nus de Sa Calobra" – the Tie Knot. This 360-degree loop is where the road curves under itself, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Be warned: this route packs over 50 curves, many of them hairpin turns. Some sections lack a central line or guardrails, and summer traffic can get intense, so take it slow and steady. This masterpiece was built in 1932, without machines. Fun fact: the engineer was inspired by a necktie to create the famous loop! Allow 25-35 minutes to soak it all in. But this isn't just about the thrill of the drive. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Prepare to be amazed by the rocky landscapes and the iconic cone-shaped rocks you'll pass along the way. Just be careful if it's raining, the asphalt gets slick. You might recognize it from Cloud Atlas! It's definitely one of the most amazing drives ever.
hardThyon 2000
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Thyon 2000: A High-Alpine Adventure in Valais Nestled high in the Swiss Alps at a breathtaking 2,095 meters (6,873 feet), Thyon 2000 is a fantastic ski station tucked away in Valais. The drive up is a real treat for anyone who loves mountain roads with personality. The road itself is fully paved, which is great news—but don't let that fool you into thinking it's a leisurely cruise. This route has some genuinely steep pitches that'll get your heart racing, with gradients hitting up to 14.3%. Your brakes will definitely earn their keep on the way down! The scenery surrounding the ascent is absolutely stunning, with classic Alpine vistas unfolding as you climb. Just come prepared for the elevation gain and those technical sections, and you'll have an unforgettable mountain driving experience. The views from the top make every hairpin turn worth it.