
Where is Pista de Ruego?
Spain, europe
16.6 km
2,580 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure-seekers! We're heading to Pista de Ruego, a mind-blowing track snaking its way up to the abandoned Minas de Liena, a former mining community chilling at a whopping 8,464 feet in the Spanish Pyrenees.
This isn't your average Sunday drive. Starting from the A-138 highway, you'll cover about 10.3 miles, but prepare for a serious climb! The average gradient is pretty intense, and you'll hit sections with an 18% grade that will test your nerves.
Parts of the road are paved, but don't let that fool you. Beyond Laspuña, things get REAL narrow – barely enough room for two cars. And hold on tight because there are seriously massive drop-offs that'll make your palms sweat. The last bit is super rocky, with loose stones and hairpin turns galore. If you're scared of heights, seriously, this isn't the road for you.
You'll be cruising through the breathtaking Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. This track winds through absolutely stunning scenery, but you’ll need a 4x4 with high clearance to handle it. Some sections are closed to regular cars, so a beefy vehicle is a must.
Word of warning: at this altitude, conditions can change in a heartbeat. Snow, fog, cold, and rain are common, even in summer. In fact, the road is usually impassable from November to June. The payoff? Unbelievable views of the majestic Monte Perdido mountain. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 16.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,580 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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