Where is Col de Ste-Anne?
France, europe
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: the Col de Ste-Anne, nestled in the Alpes-Maritimes of southeastern France. You're cruising through the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, right in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. Talk about scenic!
This little gem, also known as Route des Launes (D28), links up the high alpine areas and it's all paved. But hold on – it's not just a simple drive. Think narrow sections, winding roads cutting through pine forests, and serious alpine vibes.
Clocking in at just a handful of miles between Roure and Beuil, don't let the distance fool you. It's an intense climb to a decent elevation. The views of the Mercantour peaks are unreal. Keep an eye out for slick spots, especially in the shade. During winter, you'll definitely want your snow tires or chains – those curves can get tricky! And, heads up, the road hugs the mountain tight as you drop down towards Beuil, so keep your speed in check. Get ready for some serious mountain driving magic!
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hardSass del Mul
🇮🇹 Italy
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hardWhere is Pico de Urbión?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got a trek for you that'll test your mettle and reward you with views for days. We're heading to Pico de Urbión, a mighty peak way up in the north of Soria, Spain, reaching a dizzying 2,168 meters (7,112 feet)! You'll find this gem in the Castile and León region, not far from the mysterious Laguna Negra de Urbión. Think dramatic landscapes and seriously epic scenery. So, how do you get to the top? Start in El Quintanarejo, off the SO-830, and get ready for a 19.9km (12.36 miles) climb. Here's the thing: you NEED a 4x4 for this one, especially beyond the Refugio El Muchachón mountain hut. The entire road is unpaved and seriously steep in sections, and be warned — there are some super narrow spots and major drop-offs. Keep in mind that winter can throw a wrench in your plans, thanks to heavy snowfall in the Picos de Urbión range. But if you time it right, this drive is SO worth it. The views are insane, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and not one, but TWO incredible glacial lagoons: Laguna de Mojón Alto and Laguna Helada. Trust me, your Instagram will thank you!
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