Where is Col de Turini?
France, europe
44.9 km
1,610 m
extreme
Year-round
Col de Turini, nestled high in the French Alpes-Maritimes, is a mountain pass reaching a dizzying 1,610m (5,282ft). This isn't just any road; it's a 44.9 km (27.89 miles) stretch of pure driving bliss (and a little terror!). Part of the famed Route des Grandes Alpes, this paved beauty (aka D2566 or Route de Turini) connects Sospel and Lucéram.
Prepare for a wild ride! The road is a series of hairpin turns clinging to the mountainside. We're talking 34 tight bends that will test your skills while rewarding you with stunning views. Think dramatic drops, exposed rock faces, and lush pine forests. This engineering marvel is not for the faint of heart.
While the lower section is relatively open, don't get complacent. Narrow sections and blind corners demand your attention. As you climb, the challenge intensifies with hairpin turns galore, rock walls on one side, and sheer drops on the other. Some sections hit a steep 9% gradient!
Keep an eye out for rocks on the road, especially near the summit, and be prepared for changeable weather. Set high in the Alps, snow and ice can make this road treacherous.
The Col de Turini is legendary, and has a rich history. It's famous for being a challenging stage of the Monte Carlo Rally, where rally legends like Larousse, McRae and Solberg have pushed their limits (and sometimes exceeded them!). For years the "night of the long knives" ran the stage at night, with fans lining the roads. This place has earned the respect of every driver who's dared to take it on. It's also been featured in the Tour de France and Paris–Nice races, proving it's a versatile and breathtaking route.
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 44.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,610 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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