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
moderateWhere is Tremalzo Pass?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: you're in northern Italy, near the stunning Lake Garda, and you're itching for an off-road adventure. Tremalzo Pass is calling your name! This isn't your typical Sunday drive, though. We're talking a rugged, unpaved road – the "Strada della Grande Guerra" – that climbs to a whopping 1,845 meters (6,053 feet). Built during World War I, this 10.6 km (6.58 miles) stretch of dirt and history connects Rifugio Garda to Rifugio Alpini Passo Nota, hugging the border between Trento and Brescia. Forget your sports car; you'll need an all-terrain beast like an old-school Panda 4x4 or a trusty Jimny to tackle this beast. Word of warning: the southern side has been closed to motorized vehicles since 2015, so stick to the northern flank. Also, this road is only open in the summer months. Snowfall keeps it buried from November to April. Even in summer, be prepared for rock slides – the road's seen better days. Rocks fallen onto the road are not removed, and broken sections of road are not renewed. Approach with caution and take it slow. Some of the ramps max out at a steep 22%! But the views of Garda Lake are absolutely breathtaking, and there are even a few short rock tunnels to spice things up. Average speed? Think more like 5 mph (8-10 kph) – you'll want to savor every moment (and avoid those rocks!).
moderateDriving the scenic Route 61, a coastal road in Iceland
🇮🇸 Iceland
Hey there, adventure seekers! Let's talk about Route 61, or as the locals call it, Djúpavegur—the "Midnight Sun Road" in Iceland’s stunning Westfjords. This fully paved gem is snuggled in the northwest and stretches for 249 km (155 miles) from Road 60 to Ísafjörður, the biggest town in the Westfjords (population: around 2,600). Think dramatic coastal views and landscapes that’ll make your jaw drop! Keep in mind, though, this route isn't for the faint of heart. You'll encounter some seriously steep sections, climbing up to 440m (1,443ft) at the Steingrimsfjörðurheiði Pass. Winter travelers, listen up: keep a close eye on the weather. This pass can get gnarly with high winds and sudden storms, sometimes leading to closures. On the plus side, ancient stone cairns mark the path, like little breadcrumbs through a Nordic fairytale. Expect a smooth ride, though! The road is generally in great shape. Plan for about 3-4 hours of pure driving bliss. With epic scenery and light traffic, this could easily be the highlight of your Icelandic road trip.
moderateThe Wild Road to Selleries Refuge
🇮🇹 Italy
# Rifugio Selleries: A Mountain Adventure in Northwestern Italy Tucked away in the Metropolitan City of Turin, near the French border, Rifugio Selleries sits pretty at 2,023m (6,637ft) in the stunning Piedmont region. This relatively new refuge—opened in 2006—is a year-round gem nestled within Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, where alpine meadows and dramatic ravines create an unforgettable landscape. Getting there is half the fun. Starting from Strada Provinciale 23 del Colle di Sestriere (just south of Fenestrelle), you've got a 12.9km (8.01 miles) drive ahead. The journey begins on smooth asphalt with a series of sweeping bends as you steadily climb toward the old Agnelli Sanatorium. After a couple more curves, things level out briefly—but don't get too comfortable. At the Forte turnoff, keep your eyes peeled for the Selleries Refuge crossroads and hang a right. Here's where it gets real: that final 5km transitions to dirt track, and the ascent in the middle section is no joke. This isn't a leisurely Sunday drive—it demands respect and attention. But push through, and you'll be rewarded with mountain air, alpine scenery, and a refuge that feels like a proper adventure destination rather than just another pit stop.
easyWine Route
🇩🇪 Germany
# Wine Route (Weinstrasse): Germany's Most Scenic Drive Ready for one of Germany's best road trips? The Wine Route winds through some of the warmest, sunniest corners of the country, and honestly, it's a dream drive for anyone who loves wine and stunning scenery. This 85-kilometer journey kicks off in Schweigen-Rechtenbach, right on the French border in Rhineland-Palatinate, and wraps up in Bockenheim at the House of the German Wine Route. The entire route is perfectly paved, making for a smooth, exhilarating drive with incredible views around every bend. What makes this route so special? You'll cruise past rolling vineyards, charming wine villages straight out of a storybook, and beautiful cherry blossoms. The Palatinate region has this amazing Mediterranean-like climate—mild and pleasant, with weather that actually cooperates. You'll want your camera ready because the photo ops are endless. Beyond just driving, the real magic is in the experience. Stop for wine-tasting sessions, catch one of the local wine festivals, and indulge in the delicious Rhineland-Palatinate cuisine. It's the perfect combo of gorgeous scenery, great food, and world-class wine. Here's something cool: this is the oldest wine route of its kind in the world, and it's been continuously operating since October 1935. That's over 85 years of making this drive unforgettable. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just love a beautiful scenic road, this is absolutely a must-do.