Where is Col du Coq?
France, europe
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for the Col du Coq, a mountain pass sitting pretty in the Isère department of France! We're talking serious elevation. This climb? Totally unforgettable. You'll find it nestled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, that southeastern slice of France, clinging to the northwest-facing slopes.
Back in the day, skiers had to tackle a rough and tumble 1,400-meter unpaved road to get to the station, before swooping down. Now, this beauty runs about from Saint-Pierre-de-Chartreuse to Saint-Nazaire-les-Eymes, and yes, it's paved (thank goodness!). You'll be cruising on the . Keep an eye out, because about halfway up, you'll hit some hairpin turns.
Think this sounds familiar? This climb has been featured in the Tour de France! Some say it's a dead ringer for the Faux Col de Restefond, sharing almost the same length, steepness, difficulty, and even the same number of hairpin turns. Forget a "thrilling (scary) off-road experience to Col de Chérine". This is a truly amazing drive.
Related Roads in europe
hardThe iconic climb to Luz Ardiden
🇫🇷 France
# Luz Ardiden: A High-Alpine Climb Worth the Drive Nestled at 1,720 meters (5,643 feet) in the stunning Hautes-Pyrénées, Luz Ardiden is one of the Pyrenees' most iconic ski destinations. And here's the cool part—this place has serious cycling credentials, having hosted multiple Tour de France and Vuelta a España summit finishes. The paved road up to the resort opened back in 1975, and it's a thrilling roller coaster of hairpin bends and steep pitches. What makes it special? It's a dead-end road, so you'll never deal with heavy traffic—just you, the mountains, and those incredible panoramic views waiting at the summit. Cyclists absolutely love this place, and once you drive it, you'll understand why. The scenery is genuinely spectacular. **Coming from Luz Saint Sauveur?** Expect a 14.7 km climb gaining 1,010 meters of elevation. The average gradient sits at a manageable 6.9%, though you'll hit steeper sections maxing out at 10%. **Starting from Viscos or Saligos?** This route stretches 14.27 km with a 1,059-meter elevation gain. The average push is 7.4%, but watch out for that brutal 16% maximum slope—it'll definitely test your nerves on those hairpin turns. Either way, you're in for an unforgettable alpine adventure.
moderateWhere is Portella Femmina Morta?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Sicily on Strada Statale 289 (SS289), winding your way up to Portella Femmina Morta. This mountain pass sits way up high, in the heart of the Parco Naturale Regionale dei Nebrodi. The road stretches for about 26.4 km (16.40 miles) and snakes through the northern part of the island. The scenery is incredible, but watch out for some tight turns! If you’re feeling adventurous, a little paved road east of the pass will take you even higher to a mountain peak. Get ready for some breathtaking views. This drive is unforgettable!
moderateEisentalalm, the highest point on the Nockalmstrasse
🇦🇹 Austria
# Eisentalalm: Austria's Marmot-Crowned Mountain Pass Perched at a breathtaking 2,042 meters (6,699 feet) in Carinthia's stunning Karnten region of southern Austria, Eisentalalm is an absolute gem for mountain enthusiasts. This high alpine pass is accessed via the legendary Nockalmstrasse—a 34-kilometer paved toll road that's equal parts engineering marvel and adrenaline rush. What makes this drive unforgettable? Those 52 hairpin turns! Each switchback hugs the mountainside, offering progressively more spectacular alpine vistas as you climb toward the summit. The road itself is meticulously maintained asphalt, making it accessible for most vehicles (just keep in mind it's closed during winter months when snow takes over). But here's the real charm: the summit is crowned with an adorable sculpture of a family of marmots—a whimsical touch that'll make you smile after that intense climb. It's the kind of detail that makes Alpine driving memorable. Whether you're a seasoned mountain road conqueror or someone seeking their next scenic adventure, the Nockalmstrasse delivers jaw-dropping Carinthian scenery paired with genuinely thrilling driving. Just budget some extra time for those curves and bring your camera—the views are absolutely worth it.
moderateWhere is the D81B road located?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the D81B in Corsica, sun on your face, wind in your hair. This coastal road, carved right into the cliffs of the Haute-Corse, is an absolute *must* if you're exploring the island. This beauty stretches for about 33 kilometers (20 miles) between Calvi and Galéria, hugging the turquoise Mediterranean Sea the whole way. And get this – it was built way back in the 1700s, reportedly by prisoners! Talk about a road with a story. Now, heads up: this isn't a highway cruise. We're talking hundreds of tight turns, one right after another, barely 50 meters apart. You won't be breaking any speed records here; plan for about an hour if you don't stop, but trust me, you *will* want to stop. The views are seriously epic, and it's a favorite for motorcyclists and anyone hunting for a killer scenic drive. It’s so good, in fact, that it's been a stage in the WRC Rally of Corsica. Prepare for hairpin heaven!