
Where is Casielles?
Spain, europe
N/A
809 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! If you're heading to the Asturian council of Ponga in Spain, especially to the ghost town of Casielles nestled high in the Picos de Europa National Park, you're in for a treat… and a challenge! Casielles itself is a gem, a step back in time with its old stone houses and a charming church. The views? Epic!
But first, you gotta get there. This road? It's not for the faint of heart. Think narrow paths carved straight into the rock, mostly paved, but definitely a white-knuckle ride. Locals probably curse this road every day, but for us road trip warriors, it's an experience!
We're talking about a twisty, turny beast starting from the Desfiladero de los Beyos, about 6.5 km of pure driving adrenaline. Get ready for 23 hairpin turns that will test your skills. And the elevation? You'll be climbing, climbing, climbing from the gorge to the town which sits at 809 meters (2,654ft). The average incline is already noticeable, but prepare yourself for some corners where you'll be battling a 21% gradient! Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 809 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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