Where is Col du Val d'Ese?
France, europe
15 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Col du Val d'Ese! Nestled in the Corse-du-Sud department of France, high up in the heart of Corsica, this pass is a must-see. You'll find it perched between the Prunelli and Taravo valleys. At the top, there's a ski station to kick off more adventures, and you'll be at the starting point to what some say is the highest road in Corsica!
The road itself? It's called D27A, and it's a paved ribbon of twists and turns—think curvy and narrow, not exactly pristine. Starting in Bastelica, you'll embark on a 15 km (9.32 miles) climb, gaining around 930 meters (3,051 feet) in elevation. That's an average gradient of 6.2%! This route provides incredible views of the Gorges de Trente-Pas, and you can visit Sanctuaire de Notre Dame de la Salette. Get ready for some epic scenery!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 15 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
hardPas de l'Escalier
🇫🇷 France
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! You HAVE to check out Pas de l'Escalier in the French Pyrenees. We're talking about a wild ride up to 1,907 meters (that's 6,256 feet!) in the stunning Ariège department. Now, fair warning: this isn't your Sunday drive kinda road. It's gravelly and rocky, so think off-road vibes, not autobahn. Definitely a no-go in winter. If unpaved, steep mountain roads aren't your thing, maybe skip this one. A 4x4 is highly recommended. And if you're afraid of heights? Well, let's just say you'll get a good dose of adrenaline! But hey, the scenery is absolutely worth it. Get ready for some killer views!
hardWhere is Finstertalspeicher?
🇦🇹 Austria
Okay, picture this: Austria, high up in the mountains, and you're headed to Finstertalspeicher, a stunning reservoir nestled at over 7,800 feet! They sometimes call it Kühtai Reservoir, but whatever you call it, getting there is an adventure. The road? Mostly paved, which is a relief, but keep an eye out because it can be closed, especially the little tunnel section about halfway in. Winter? Forget about it – this road is snowed under. Even when it's clear, watch for potential rock slides. The road winds for about 3.6 miles from the base of the dam near Oetz, and trust me, it's a climb! You'll gain almost 2,000 feet, making for an average grade of around 10%. But the views? Absolutely worth the effort. Seriously, the scenery is postcard-perfect!
hardPlatta de Grevon
🇮🇹 Italy
# Platta de Grevon: A Summer Alpine Adventure Ready for a wild ride up one of Italy's most extreme peaks? Platta de Grevon sits at 2,715 meters (8,907 feet) in Valle d'Aosta, in the Italian Alps, and the route to the top is definitely not your typical mountain drive. This is a chairlift access trail for the Pila ski resort, and let me tell you—it's legitimately gnarly. The entire route is rocky and gravelly, with a relentless steep grade that kicks up even more intensity as you climb higher, where loose stones and exposed rock become the name of the game. Some sections hit a brutal 30% gradient. Here's the kicker: you can only tackle this beast during an incredibly narrow window—basically the tail end of August when conditions are just right. The rest of the year? Forget about it. And even during that brief window, you'll be battling serious winds. High-altitude gusts are constant here, so expect to be buffeted around quite a bit. This is genuinely one of the highest drivable roads in Italy, so you know you're tackling something special. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're a thrill-seeking driver looking to conquer an authentic Alpine challenge, Platta de Grevon delivers the goods—just plan your visit for late summer and come prepared for anything.
hard5 Risky Irish Roads That Are Not Easy to Drive
🌍 Ireland
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because Ireland’s roads are an adventure all their own! First up, the **Wild Atlantic Way**: This isn't just a road trip; it's a 2,500 km love letter to the Irish coast. Think dramatic views and quirky villages, but also razor-sharp bends, bumpy surfaces, and the occasional sheep crossing. Keep your eyes peeled and your speed down, especially in those remote spots! Then there’s **Conor’s Pass**: Get ready for some serious elevation! The views are insane, but the road? Let’s just say it’s cozy. Expect super tight corners, steep hills, and visibility that can disappear faster than a pint of Guinness. Take it slow, and be ready to pull over to let others pass. Don't miss the **Old Military Road**: Winding through the Wicklow Mountains for 58 km, this road is exposed and windy. It’s got history and beauty, but not a whole lot of guardrails. Keep an eye on the weather, especially in winter! Next up, the **Gap of Dunloe**: This narrow mountain pass is shared by cars, cyclists, walkers, and even horse-drawn carts! Nestled between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain range, you’ll get breathtaking scenery, but don’t expect much elbow room. Slow and steady wins the race here. Last but not least, the **Slea Head Drive**: This 46 km loop on the Dingle Peninsula is all about those ocean views. But don't get too distracted because this road can get skinny, twisty, and hilly. It’s popular with tourists, so expect company! So, get ready for the ride of your life! Just remember to drive safely, stay alert, and prepare for anything.