Where is Glaubenberg Pass?
Switzerland, europe
30.4 km
1,543 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: the Glaubenberg Pass, a totally awesome road snaking up to 5,062 feet above sea level, right on the border between cantons, in central Switzerland. This pass has history, going way back, but the road as we know it took shape later on, and hey, even prisoners helped build it!
It's all paved now, smooth enough that it's even been part of a cycling race. Expect some pretty steep sections—nothing crazy, but pay attention! The real challenge? Watch out for those cows!
It’s nearly 19 miles of twisting, turning fun from Entlebuch (that's the district seat) to Sarnen (the capital of Obwalden, chilling by the lake).
Heads up, though: winter puts the brakes on this beauty. Usually, it’s closed from November/December until April/May, totally weather-dependent. The road from the south stays open to Langis, but the rest is a no-go until spring.
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 30.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,543 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
hardRoad trip guide: conquering Lake Gruebu
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Grüebusee: Switzerland's Hidden Alpine Gem Tucked away in the Valais region of southern Switzerland, near the Italian border, sits the stunning Grüebusee—a pristine alpine lake perched at a breathtaking 2,862 meters (9,389 feet). The name itself tells a story: in Swiss German, "Grüebu" derives from "Grube," meaning "pit" or "hollow," so you're basically visiting a lake nestled in nature's own depression. Pretty cool, right? Ready for an adventure? The 13.9-kilometer (8.6-mile) drive from Saas-Balen to the lake via Heimischgarten is definitely not your typical Sunday cruise. Starting at the bridge over the Vispa, you'll gain a serious 1,336 meters of elevation with an average gradient of 9.61%—and that's just the average. The steepest sections hit a punishing 20%. Here's the real deal: only the first four kilometers are paved. After that, buckle up for a wild ride featuring 26 hairpin turns on a narrow, unpaved track. Loose gravel, cramped passages, and steep drop-offs make this one a true test of driving skill. This route is strictly 4x4 with high clearance only—no exceptions. One of Switzerland's highest roads, Grüebusee is a serious mountain challenge. Plan your visit carefully though: the road is typically closed from October through June, weather permitting. Time your trip right, and you'll be rewarded with some of the most jaw-dropping alpine scenery imaginable.
hardUlan-Daban Pass, an international pass only for 4x4
🌍 Russia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Ulan-Daban Pass, perched high in the Altai Mountains on the Russia-Mongolia border, is calling your name! This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking a rugged, unpaved, rocky climb to 8,848 feet! Seriously, leave the sedan at home. You'll need a 4x4 to conquer this beast. The road winds for 118 miles between Belyashi, Russia, and Khokh, Mongolia, with some seriously narrow sections that might make you question your reversing skills! Expect the unexpected with the weather; conditions can change on a dime. But hey, the Ukok Plateau scenery is absolutely worth it! Just be prepared for an epic, challenging, and unforgettable ride!
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.
extremeA journey on the legendary Pista del Marroquí
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the Pista del Marroquí, an old road clinging to the cliffs in Ourense, up in the Galicia region of northwest Spain. Seriously stunning! This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. Nestled way up in the Macizo Galaico-Leones mountains, this 9-kilometer stretch is a bit rough around the edges. You'll find pavement for most of it, but there are some unpaved sections towards the end that add a little extra thrill. Let's just say it's cozy – definitely a one-car-at-a-time kind of road. Fair warning: it's not maintained and has some serious drop-offs – we're talking hundreds of meters! Here's the cool part: it was built way back between 1927 and 1940 to help build a railway line from Vigo to Madrid. It's named after the engineer, Augusto Marroquí. Legend has it that so many workers died building the railway (around 12,000!), that it got the nickname "Camiño dos Mortos" – the Track of the Dead. The road basically hugs the railway line, acting as a service road for workers, supplies, and the injured. You'll be winding between 800 and 1000 meters above sea level, with unbelievable mountain views. Be aware that a landslide has blocked part of the road, so you can't drive the whole thing. There's a place called Mirador de Sierra Alta nearby for taking pictures.