Where is Clue de Gréolières?
France, europe
10.7 km
1,052 m
moderate
Year-round
Escape the French Riviera glitz with a drive through the spectacular Clue de Gréolières, a canyon hidden in the Alpes-Maritimes department. This gem, one of France's famous "balcony roads," offers an unforgettable experience.
You'll find this canyon nestled in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The D2 road (also known as Route Greolieres, Route de Thorenc, or Route de Gentelly), is a fully paved route carved by the Peyron river. Trust me, it lives up to the hype as one of the most stunning roads on the planet.
The road is only 10.7 km (6.64 miles) long, winding its way from Gréolières (a charming Medieval village perched high) to Route du Castellaras (D5).
Tucked away in the Parc naturel régional des Préalpes d'Azur, this road climbs to the Pas de Tous Vents, a mountain pass sitting at 1,052m (3,451ft).
Expect a dramatic drive, full of narrow, dark tunnels carved right into the rock face, plus some seriously cool natural rock arches. Set aside about 13 minutes for the drive, not counting stops.
Keep an eye out for potential rockslides – seriously, don't stop in the middle of the road. But, despite the caution required, the scenery is worth every bit of it.
This short drive is truly exceptional and something you shouldn't miss if you're in the French Riviera. This gorge is also famous for its network of underground caves (some open to explore!). It's so extraordinary that it even starred in the James Bond film Goldeneye for that thrilling car chase scene!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 10.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,052 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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