Where is Punta d’Icún?
Spain, europe
9 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in the Spanish Pyrenees, Huesca province, Aragon. You’re aiming for Punta d’Icún, also known as Cerro de las Canales — a peak that hits over 2,000 meters above sea level! This isn't your average Sunday drive.
This hidden gem starts near the sleepy village of Escarrilla. From the top, you get a full-on 360-degree view of granite peaks and deep valleys stretching toward France. It's a total escape.
Now, the road... it’s unpaved, baby! Think loose gravel, chunky limestone, and natural earth tracks. High clearance is a must. But the real kicker? The wind. Seriously, it's almost always howling up there, especially near the top. And with zero safety barriers, things can get dicey fast!
The entire climb is just 9 km (5.6 miles). Sounds easy, right? Wrong! You're battling an insane 868-meter elevation gain over that distance. That's an average gradient of almost 10%! It's one of the steepest climbs around and it is relentless.
Oh, and heads up: this road is usually snowed in from October to June. Even in summer, mountain storms can roll in quick, turning those dirt sections into a muddy mess. So, check the weather and make sure your rig is ready for some serious off-road action. You're gonna need it!
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 9 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in europe
moderateThe Ultimate Guide to Traveling to Portarró d'Espot
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Portarró d'Espot! This high mountain pass sits way up in the province of Lleida, Catalonia, Spain, clocking in at a cool 2,430m (7,972ft). We're talking one of the highest roads in the whole country! Tucked inside the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, prepare for a seriously challenging and winding ride. Forget your pavement princess – this route is totally unpaved, and closed off to regular cars. 4x4 is the name of the game here. And listen up, during or after bad weather, even your trusty four-wheel drive might not cut it! Basically, you're looking at a summer-only kinda adventure. But trust me, the views are worth it! Starting in Espot, a town in Pallars Sobirà, you've got a 13.4km climb ahead of you. That might not sound like much, but you're gaining 1,098 meters in elevation along the way. That's an average gradient of 8.19%! Reach the top, and you'll be rewarded with a killer panoramic view of the entire park. This summit is *the* spot for snapping some epic landscape pics.
hardValico di Monte Cristo
🇮🇹 Italy
# Valico di Monte Cristo Picture this: you're cruising through the Abruzzo region of Italy, heading toward one of the Apennines' most dramatic high-altitude passes. Valico di Monte Cristo sits pretty at 1,767 meters (5,797 feet) above sea level, and honestly? The drive up is as unforgettable as the destination. The route, called Strada Statale 17 bis, is paved—thank goodness—but don't let that fool you. This isn't a leisurely Sunday drive. You're looking at some seriously steep sections that hit up to 10% gradient, and the landscape feels almost otherworldly as you climb. It's like driving on the moon, minus the zero gravity. One of the Apennines' highest passes, this road commands respect from anyone brave enough to tackle it. The narrow ribbon of asphalt winds through a lunar-like terrain that'll have you questioning what planet you're on. If you're planning to explore the area further, there's a paved narrow road leading to Colle Bettone, and the Barmasse Refuge is another worthwhile stop for those looking to stretch their legs and soak in the Alpine views. Fair warning: this isn't a road for the faint of heart, but if you're after an authentic mountain pass experience with jaw-dropping scenery and a genuine sense of accomplishment, Valico di Monte Cristo delivers.
extremeA memorable road trip to Kobi Pass in the Greater Caucasus
🇬🇪 Georgia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're craving serious off-road action in Georgia, you HAVE to experience Kobi Pass. This beast sits way up high in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, topping out at a staggering 2,956m (that's 9,698ft!). You'll find it nestled west of Mount Sadzele, right in the heart of the Gudauri Recreational Area in the northeastern part of the country. Word to the wise: this is NOT a drive for the faint of heart, or for your average sedan. The entire 9km (5.59 miles) from the S3 highway near Gudauri is unpaved and crazy steep. We're talking 4x4 territory ONLY, and you'll definitely want high clearance. Plus, forget about visiting between October and June – snow makes it totally impassable. Always peep the weather report, because conditions can change on a dime. But trust me, the views are worth it! You'll be smack-dab in the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, with mind-blowing panoramas everywhere you look. And the legendary Mount Kazbek (5047m)? Prepare for an epic perspective! Keep in mind the road is closed to private vehicles.
hardIs the LP-4 Road in the Canary Islands Paved?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: the LP-4 on La Palma, Canary Islands. This isn't just any road, it's a stairway to heaven in the northern part of the island! Seriously, the panoramic views are insane! It climbs up, up, up to Roque de Los Muchachos, the island's peak, giving you access to the stunning Caldera de Taburiente National Park. Starting near Santa Cruz de la Palma, this paved beauty winds and twists its way up into the mountains. Fair warning though, it's a road with some serious curves and steep climbs, so you'll need to keep it slow and steady. Remember, you're up high, so take it easy and enjoy the views. This road really showcases the island's mountainous character!