Where is Hohsaas?
Switzerland, europe
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! Hohsaas, nestled in the Swiss Alps of Valais near the Italian border, is calling your name. We're talking seriously high altitude here, one of the highest roads in Europe, so buckle up!
Okay, so technically, you can't *drive* all the way to the tippy-top. The last bit is a chairlift access trail. But the journey to the base? Epic!
Starting from Saas Grund, you've got about 4.2km of road ahead of you, a proper climb with over 500m of elevation gain. Expect an average gradient of around 12.5%.
Word to the wise: this road is a summer fling only, usually open from June to October.
The views? Unbelievable. And once you're at the summit (either via chairlift or by hiking), you'll find a mountain cabin waiting for you.
This isn't your Sunday drive—so do your research and be prepared for some steep sections. But trust me, the bragging rights (and the photos) are totally worth it!
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
extremeLe Grammont
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Le Grammont Perched at 2,004m (6,574ft) in Valais, Switzerland, Le Grammont is the kind of mountain peak that demands respect. The gravel road climbing to its summit? Let's just say it's not your average scenic drive. This route is legitimately intense. You're dealing with ice and snow that can show up even during summer months, so you'll need nerves of steel and constant vigilance. The payoff? An absolutely bonkers adrenaline rush that'll test your lungs, your heart, and especially your legs. The steepness is genuinely jaw-dropping—photos simply can't capture how brutal this climb really is. Fair warning: this road is closed to vehicles, so you'll be tackling it on foot. But if you're looking for an unforgettable alpine adventure that separates the truly dedicated from the casual hikers, Le Grammont delivers in spades.
hardTunnel de Gueule Rouge
🇫🇷 France
Okay, adventure seekers, let me tell you about the Tunnel de Gueule Rouge on Réunion Island – a tiny French paradise in the Indian Ocean. Picture this: you're cruising along the Route Nationale nº5, heading between Saint-Louis and Cilaos, when BAM! You're faced with this super-tight, old-school tunnel. We're talking a mere 114.54 meters long, but don't let that fool you. This thing was built back in 1938, and its height is only 3m. It's so narrow that only one car can squeeze through at a time, so prepare to hold your breath (or maybe coordinate with oncoming traffic). The road surface is asphalt, so that's good. But seriously, get ready for an unforgettable, slightly claustrophobic, but totally worth it experience!
hardDriving to Lago di Maulazzo: A scenic mountain road in the Nebrodi Park
🇮🇹 Italy
# Lago di Maulazzo: A Hidden Gem in Sicily's Mountains Tucked away in Sicily's Messina province, Lago di Maulazzo is this stunning mountain lake sitting pretty at 1,453 meters (4,767 feet) above sea level. It's nestled within the Parco Naturale Regionale dei Nebrodi, which happens to be one of the island's most impressive forested areas. Getting there is half the fun—if you're into a bit of a driving challenge, that is. The route starts from Portella Femmina Morta on the SS289 mountain pass, and from there, you've got 3.7 km (2.29 miles) of winding road ahead. It's a narrow, steep climb that winds through gorgeous beech forests, and the experience is genuinely unique. Now, here's the thing about this road: it's a real patchwork. You'll encounter cobblestones (lots of them), gravel, old asphalt, and concrete sections all mixed together. Years of weather have taken their toll, leaving potholes and uneven surfaces scattered throughout. A standard sedan might struggle here—a high-clearance SUV is definitely your best bet. Also, bring your GPS because there's nothing in the way of directional signs, and plenty of small side roads are eager to lead you astray. The payoff? Absolutely worth it. When you finally roll up to the lake, you'll find yourself in a peaceful paradise with Monte Soro looming nearby. The entire lake is perfect for a scenic walk, making it a haven for both road trippers and hikers. One heads-up: come winter, this mountain road gets serious. Snow and ice can turn that cobblestone surface into a skating rink. Always check the weather before heading up outside the summer months.
hardMonte Amiata
🇮🇹 Italy
# Monte Amiata: A Tuscan Alpine Adventure Tucked away in southern Tuscany's Province of Siena, Monte Amiata rises to a bracing 1,683 meters (5,521 feet) above sea level. This isn't your typical Italian hilltop—it's a proper mountain with serious elevation that'll make your heart pump and your legs feel it. The road up? That's the Strada Provinciale Vetta dell'Amiata, and it's a beast. Sure, it's fully paved, but don't let that fool you. This route gets mean, with sections hitting a punishing 15% gradient that'll test both your car and your nerves. You've got two main ways up. Starting from the charming village of Seggiano, you're looking at a 19-kilometer grind with nearly 1,300 meters of elevation gain and an average gradient of 6.7%—a proper climbing challenge. Prefer something slightly less brutal? Head from Abbadia San Salvatore instead, where the 12.9-kilometer ascent features 847 meters of gain averaging 6.6%. Still steep, but a touch more forgiving. Reaching the summit feels like breaking through to another world. There's a commanding 22-meter tall cross standing proudly at 1,738 meters, overlooking the landscape below. The summit itself buzzes with activity—communication antennas dot the peak, and there are actual hotels and restaurants where you can refuel after the climb. Perfect for catching your breath and soaking in those Tuscan views.