Where is Collada de Carmenes?
Spain, europe
8.5 km
1,343 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk about Collada de Cármenes, a sweet mountain pass nestled in the province of León, Spain!
You'll find this beauty in the Castile and León region, chilling in the northwest. It's a totally paved road (they call it LE-312) in great shape, so no need to worry about your tires. It's got some fun curves, but nothing too crazy steep – we're talking about a gentle 5-6% average incline, with a few spots that might hit 10%. Just a heads up, winter can bring some snow, so plan accordingly!
This little gem stretches for about 8.5 kilometers (5.28 miles) between Carmenes and Villamanín, going east to west. Once you reach the top, you'll find a small parking area. If you're feeling extra adventurous and have a 4x4, there's a rugged gravel road heading north to Mina La Profunda, an old copper mine. Just be warned, it's strictly 4x4 territory!
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 8.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,343 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
hardHow long is the road from Cetinje to Kotor?
🌍 Montenegro
Get ready for an epic road trip along Montenegro's R-1 regional road, connecting Cetinje and Kotor on the Adriatic coast! This isn't just any drive; it's a 36.3 km (22.55 miles) rollercoaster of hairpin turns, winding from the historic fields of Cetinje, nestled at the foot of Mount Lovcen, all the way down to the stunning Bay of Kotor, a city steeped in maritime history. This route isn't new; it follows an old Roman caravan trail. The road itself was built by the Austrians back in 1897. Now, let's talk about thrills! This is a mostly single-lane road that carves its way with a whopping 30 hairpin turns, offering breathtaking views from way up high. Be warned, though! This road can be a bit treacherous with inward-leaning concrete barriers on one side and jagged rock on the other. You might find yourself playing reverse roulette if you meet a bus! The highlight? The legendary Kotor Serpentine! This 8.3km (5.15 miles) stretch is a steep climb with 16 hairpin turns, ascending from 458m to 881m. It's a 423-meter elevation gain at an average of 5.09%. Located within Lovcen National Park, give yourself around 1.3 hours to drive one way. This super curvy road offers incredible views. It's easy to see why Top Gear and fancy car commercials love this place!
hardOlgunlar Yaylası-Hüngamek Road, recommended for drivers with strong nerves
🇹🇷 Turkey
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you find yourself in the Artvin Province of Turkey, clinging to the Black Sea coast, and you're feeling brave, I’ve got a road for you. Forget paved perfection, this is raw, untamed Turkey at its finest – the road from Olgunlar Yaylası to Hüngamek. Clocking in at just over 10 miles, this wild ride climbs sky-high. We're talking over 10,000 feet above sea level! Think breathtaking views, but also, gulp, serious drop-offs. And hold on tight because there are 28 hairpin turns thrown in for good measure. Did I mention it’s unpaved? Yeah, you’ll definitely want a 4x4 for this steep climb. Summer is your only window of opportunity here. Trust me, this road is an experience you won't soon forget!
moderateWhere is Serrù Lake?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the Strada Provinciale 50 (SP50) in Italy's Piedmont region, heading toward Lago Serrù. This isn't just any lake; it's a stunning, high-altitude reservoir sitting pretty at 2,275 meters (that's 7,464 feet!). You're smack-dab in the eastern Graian Alps, right between the Aosta Valley and Piedmont, and inside the Gran Paradiso National Park – nature overload in the best way possible! The road itself is paved, but hold on tight – you'll be tackling some seriously steep sections, with gradients hitting up to 12.3%. Weekends in the summer can get crazy busy, so plan accordingly. Just a heads-up, this road is typically closed from October 15th to May 15th due to snow. And on Sundays in July and August, the last six kilometers are often closed to cars. But trust me, the views are absolutely worth the effort. You're surrounded by those amazing Alps, so get your camera ready!
hardWhere is Strassberger Fürggli?
🇨🇭 Switzerland
Okay, picture this: Strassberger Fürggli, a Swiss mountain peak chilling at 2,109 meters (6,919 feet) in the eastern part of the country. It’s a bit off the beaten path, nestled near the Strassberg mountain hut. Now, heads up, the road to the top? Totally unpaved! You'll definitely want a 4x4 for this adventure. Forget about it in winter – usually impassable then. From the Strassberg hut, it’s just under 2 km (about 1.2 miles) to the peak, but get ready to climb – you'll gain 189 meters in elevation, so expect some steep sections. But trust me, it’s worth it! You’re way out there, soaking in an untouched mountain setting. The views of the Schanfigg are incredible, and if you keep your eyes peeled, you might spot some cool wildlife. Just be prepared for a narrow road with sections hitting 15% and some unlit tunnels on your way to the Vieux Emosson lake. It's a driver's dream.