Where is Lac de Cap-de-Long?
France, europe
N/A
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're cruising in the French Pyrenees, heading south of Aragnouet towards the Néouvielle massif. You're about to tackle the road to Lac de Cap-de-Long, one of the highest paved roads in the whole range – even taller than that famous Col du Galibier!
This isn't just any drive, though. The pavement's a bit rough in places, adding a touch of character to the ride. It's a proper climb, about 14 km long, and you'll be gaining 1167 meters in altitude as you wind your way up. Expect an average gradient of 8.3%, but be warned – some stretches crank up to a leg-burning 12%!
The grand finale? A series of hairpin turns that lead you right up to the dam. Once you arrive at this scenic spot, there's a big parking area (though it can get packed in summer), a restaurant to refuel, and a whole heap of hiking trails ready for you to explore. The views of the surrounding mountains are absolutely mind-blowing, making it all worthwhile!
Related Roads in europe
moderateDriving the remote coastal road from Korsakov to Novikovo
🌍 Russia
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along the coast of Sakhalin Island, way out in the Russian Far East, practically next door to Japan. The road from Korsakov to Novikovo? Total hidden gem. It's about 76 km (48 miles) of mostly paved road with a few rugged dirt sections thrown in to keep things interesting, connecting those two villages by way of Ozerskoye. The road is quite wide, so there's room to breathe, and the views? Seriously stunning coastal vistas. You'll feel like you're at the edge of the world on this remote drive.
extremeWhere is Alto del Gamoniteiro?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: you're in Asturias, Spain, ready to tackle what they say is the highest paved road in the region: Alto del Gamoniteiro! Nestled south of the legendary Angliru in the Sierra del Aramo range, this climb isn't for the faint of heart. The road kicks off from the AS-230 and stretches for about 6.4 kilometers, switchbacking up with 11 hairpin turns. Don't let the short distance fool you – you'll be gaining 625 meters in elevation, and the road is narrow with some seriously steep ramps hitting a brutal 17%. The asphalt isn't the greatest, with some concrete sections and a few potholes thrown in for good measure. The views are absolutely stunning, but if you're afraid of heights, maybe keep your eyes glued to the road ahead! At the top, you'll find a small parking area and communication towers. If you're feeling adventurous, there's even an unpaved road leading to Lago de Cueva, a mountain lagoon. Just be prepared for a tough but rewarding ride – the last kilometer averages over 13% with sections of 17%! This climb is relentless, but trust me, the bragging rights are worth it!
hardWhere is Cinque Torri Refuge?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: You're in the Italian Veneto region, heading towards the breathtaking Cinque Torri. This isn't just any drive; it's a 4.2km (2.6 mile) adventure up to a high mountain refuge. The road? Let's just say it's cozy – super narrow, completely paved, and switchbacks galore. Weekends can get busy, so plan accordingly. Keep an eye out for closure from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Expect stunning scenery, of course, but remember, this is mountain driving, so stay alert! Historically, this area was a battleground between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces. Near the refuge, you’ll find a small oratory. Just be aware that the road usually closes in winter due to severe weather.
moderateIs Zekari Pass unpaved?
🇬🇪 Georgia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Deep in Georgia, straddling the Imereti and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions, lies Zekari Pass. Forget pavement – this is a 39.2 km (24.35 miles) unadulterated off-road experience connecting Sairme and Abastumani, a former Soviet resort area nestled in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. This isn't a Sunday drive. We're talking 2-3 hours of slow going on a seriously rough track, best tackled in a capable 4x4. Heavy rains? Forget about it. You'll be stuck. But if you're brave enough, the views are insane. Think sprawling mountain vistas from a max elevation of 2,275m (7,463ft) and a pass at 2.157m (7,076ft). Plus, you'll find cool shepherd camps dotting the landscape. And near the pass is the Georgian Academy of Sciences observatory (the first high-mountain one in the USSR, BTW) which you can access via cable car. Keep in mind, though, Zekari Pass is generally snowed in from October to June. So plan your trip accordingly and get ready for an unforgettable Georgian adventure!