Where is Col de La Buffere?
France, europe
5.1 km
2,431 m
hard
Year-round
Col de Buffère: Picture this, you're cruising through the Hautes-Alpes department of France, and you stumble upon this beast of a mountain pass. We're talking a whopping 2,431m (7,975ft) above sea level!
You'll find it nestled in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, in the southeastern part of France.
This road has some serious history, dating all the way back to the early 1900s when it was built for military use. Up at the top, you can still spot remnants from World War II—part of the old Maginot Line. Pretty cool, right?
Now, don't get me wrong, the Piste du Col de La Buffere is gorgeous, with killer views of the Écrins National Park. But it's not for the faint of heart. It's unpaved the whole way, think gravel and rocks, with some crazy steep sections hitting up to 20% gradient! You'll definitely want a 4x4 for this one.
The fun starts from the D234T, clocking in at about 5.1 km (3.16 miles) with a 314-meter climb. That’s an average gradient of 6.15%, so get ready to work those gears!
Heads up, though: this route is usually closed from late October to late June/early July due to snow.
You can drive part of it, but private vehicles aren't allowed on the very last stretch to the summit. It's all about keeping things safe and preserving the area because the road gets super narrow with some serious drop-offs.
Honestly, the views are worth it, offering epic panoramas of the surrounding peaks. Plus, you get a dose of history with the military fortifications.
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 5.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,431 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
extremeDriving the road to Col de l’Abelle is not a piece of cake
🇫🇷 France
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! Col de l’Abelle in the French Alps is calling your name! This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking a nail-biting 19.7 km (12.24 miles) stretch of pure adrenaline in the Alpes-Maritimes department. Perched at a cool 925m (3,034ft), the D332 winds its way between the Vésubie and Tinée valleys with views that'll make your jaw drop. But hold on tight, this paved road is narrow – seriously narrow! – and not exactly in pristine condition (think potholes). Two cars passing simultaneously? Forget about it. Oh, and did I mention the climb? Get ready for some seriously steep sections, with gradients reaching a thigh-burning 13.3%. It’s a challenging drive from La Tour to Les Granges de la Brasque, but the scenery? Totally worth it! Just remember to take it slow, keep your eyes peeled, and prepare for an unforgettable Alpine experience.
hardTake the Scenic Route and Discover Bigorno Pass in Corsica
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're on Corsica, that wild, beautiful island in France, and you're about to tackle the Col de Bigorno! This mountain pass, up in the Serra di Tenda, takes you up to 888 meters (almost 3,000 feet!). The road, also called Bocca di Bigornu, is paved, but let's just say it's seen better days. Think of it as adding character to your adventure! You'll be snaking along the D5 for about 13.2 kilometers (8.2 miles) from Bigorno to Murato, hitting five hairpin turns that will test your driving skills. And get this: some sections are seriously steep, with gradients hitting 12%! Once you reach the top, be prepared for some strong winds, especially from the north and northwest. If you're feeling extra adventurous, there's a gravel road heading west to a communication station. Buckle up for some incredible views!
extreme1. Sa Calobra Road (MA-2141): The Snake
🇪🇸 Spain
Mallorca's mountain roads are seriously epic, way beyond the beach scene! The Serra de Tramuntana mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site and basically a playground for drivers, with high-altitude thrills, crazy coastal views, and silky-smooth roads. From the famous "Tie Knot" to the rugged northern cliffs, here’s your ultimate Mallorca road trip guide. **Sa Calobra Road (MA-2141): The Snake** This isn't just a road, it's a work of art! Designed in 1932, this 12.2 km (7.58 miles) ribbon of asphalt spirals down to the sea, thanks to the mind-blowing "Nus de sa Corbata" (Tie Knot) – a 360-degree bridge. It's a tight, steep drop that needs your full attention, especially when tour buses are around! **Formentor Lighthouse Road (MA-2210): The End of the World** Get ready for a 10.9 km (6.77 miles) ride to the northernmost point of the island. The lighthouse, built in 1863, perches on 200-meter cliffs. This road is all about "scenic majesty" but can get crowded, so access is limited during peak times. Expect wind, wild goats, and views that will blow your mind! **MA-10: The Tramuntana Backbone** Running for 110 km (68 miles) from Andratx to Pollença, this is the quintessential Mallorcan road. It's a non-stop adventure of mountain passes, tunnels, and forests. Set aside at least 2 hours to drive the whole thing – you'll need to focus! Watch for cyclists and goats chilling on the road. You'll see Mallorca's "wild side," far from the resorts. **Puig Major: Climbing the Highest Peak** This route takes you as high as you can go in Mallorca. The very top is a military zone, but the 6.9 km (4.28 miles) climb is amazing. Built in 1958, this road has 8 hairpin turns and some seriously steep parts. The tunnel at the top is like a portal between the green valleys of Sóller and the rocky reservoirs of Cúber and Gorg Blau. **MA-1131: The Thrill of Port de Valldemossa** Love tight squeezes and big drops? This road is for you. The 5.7 km (3.54 miles) descent from Valldemossa to the port is super narrow. With a crazy gradient and 9 sharp hairpins, it's a test of nerves. There aren't many places to stop, and the Mediterranean views will have your passengers holding on tight!
hardWhere is Buttertubs Pass?
🇬🇧 England
Okay, buckle up for Buttertubs Pass! This epic stretch of road sits high in the Yorkshire Dales, England, topping out at 1,732 feet. Jeremy Clarkson himself called it "England's only truly spectacular road," and he wasn't kidding. You'll find this paved beauty, also known as Cliff Gate Road (B6270), winding its way between Hawes and Thwaite for about 5.5 miles. The name? It comes from the super cool, deep limestone potholes near the summit where, legend has it, farmers used to stash their butter to keep it cool on market days. Don't let the light traffic fool you, this isn't a drive for the faint of heart. You're looking at some serious gradients (averaging 6.5%, but hitting 20% in spots!), hairpin bends, and *massive* drop-offs – we're talking over 400 feet! It can get slick when it rains, too, so drive smart. There's a tiny parking area at the top, but watch out for strong winds up there. So, is it worth it? Absolutely! The views are breathtaking, and the driving is pure adrenaline. Think steep climbs, quick descents, and corners that'll test your skills. It's been featured on Top Gear and other shows for a reason. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!