Where is Lac des Dix?
Switzerland, europe
17.4 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Lac des Dix, a stunning alpine lake way up in the Swiss Valais canton. We’re talking serious elevation here! This isn't just any lake, though; it's famous for its absolutely gigantic dam – supposedly the tallest gravity dam on the planet! A total civil engineering flex. They built this beast between and it now collects meltwater from 35 surrounding glaciers. Plus, it's the trailhead for some epic hikes (open mid-June to end of September).
Now, to get there? Buckle up for a 17.4 km (10.81 miles) drive, ending with parking at the bottom of the dam. The road is a series of steep, super-photogenic hairpin turns that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear. But here's the catch: it’s closed in winter due to, well, Switzerland being Switzerland in winter. It's nothing like the old Tremola road to Gotthard Pass.
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 17.4 km
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
hardIs the road to Großsee paved?
🇦🇹 Austria
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits! We're heading to Großsee, a stunning alpine reservoir perched way up in Carinthia, Austria. Think jaw-dropping views from 2,481m (8,139ft)! The road? Mostly paved, thankfully, but hold on tight. It's a twisty, turny climb with around 30 hairpin bends. The asphalt gives way to a rougher track near the top at 2,470m (8,103ft), so be prepared for some boulders and maybe even snow. The adventure kicks off in Großkirchheim, and from there it's a 15.8 km (9.81 miles) ascent. And get this - the road is seriously steep! We're talking gradients of up to 24% in places. You'll be climbing 1,459 meters in total, averaging over 9% along the way. Built in 1978, this road will test your car and reward you with incredible scenery. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
moderateThe Road to Coll de Jou is a Chillout in the Pyrenees
🇪🇸 Spain
Coll de Jou is a high mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,637m (5,370ft) in the province of Girona, nestled in the heart of Catalonia's Pyrenees in northern Spain. At the summit, you'll find free parking and Refugi De Sant Jordi, a mountain shelter that's seen better days—it's unmaintained with two separate rooms, one featuring a fireplace that's more decorative than functional (it leaks!). The 14.7 km (9.13 miles) route runs west-east from Bruguera to Ogassa through the Serra Cavallera range, and it's a proper adventure. The road is fully paved with some concrete sections, but don't expect smooth sailing—this climb is steep and chunky, with a punishing 16.0% maximum gradient in places. The gradient keeps you guessing too, mixing steep ramps with gentler stretches throughout. Fair warning: it's narrow and twisty, so caravans need not apply. But here's the payoff: you're climbing through some seriously gorgeous mountain scenery in one of Europe's most stunning ranges. Just take your time, enjoy the views, and maybe skip the mountain refuge unless you're desperate for a chat with the fireplace.
hardTodorka
🌍 Bulgaria
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're craving a serious dose of Bulgarian wilderness, Todorka Peak in Blagoevgrad Province is calling your name. This isn't your average Sunday drive; we're talking about a climb to 2,534 meters (that's 8,313 feet!) on one of Bulgaria's highest mountain roads. The road? Let's just say it's...rustic. Think gravel, rocks, bumps, and a whole lotta "tippy." It's basically an access road for the chairlift at the Bansko ski center, and a true 4x4 is an absolute must. Honestly, this isn't the place to test your off-roading skills for the first time. It's usually buried under snow from October to June, so plan accordingly. The views, though? Unreal. You're smack-dab in Pirin National Park, surrounded by the stunning Pirin Mountains. Just be warned: it's steep, the wind can be fierce, and thunderstorms can turn that gravel road into a muddy mess in a heartbeat. Heights make you queasy? Maybe skip this one. But if you're an experienced wheeler with a love for dramatic landscapes, Todorka is an unforgettable experience.
moderateWhere is Lac de Cap-de-Long?
🇫🇷 France
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!