
Where Is Road D914?
France, europe
N/A
105 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trippers, buckle up for the D914, or as the locals call it, Route d’Espagne! This isn't just any drive; it's a seriously scenic coastal cruise through the Pyrénées-Orientales region of France, right on the Spanish border.
Stretching from the Col de Belitres all the way to the charming fishing port of Port-Vendres, this north-south beauty is a feast for the eyes. Think postcard-perfect Mediterranean views, dotted with beaches, hidden bays, and cute little coves.
Now, fair warning: this road can get *packed*, especially during those summer months. Keep an eye out for traffic! It also winds its way up a couple of notable climbs, first to Coll de les Fresses (344 feet) and then to Coll dels Belitres (545 feet).
Also, heads up – this route can be closed without warning sometimes. But don’t let that deter you – the payoff is SO worth it!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 105 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in europe
hardIf you love to drive, you will love the road to Mauria Pass
🇮🇹 Italy
# Passo della Mauria Ready to tackle one of Italy's most scenic mountain passes? Passo della Mauria sits at a cool 1,298m (4,259ft) right where Veneto and Friuli shake hands in northern Italy. This 21km (13-mile) stretch of the Strada Statale 52 runs north-south connecting Pelos di Cadore to Forni di Sopra, and honestly, it's a proper adventure. The road is paved but keep your wits about you—it's fairly narrow with some serious 10% gradients and a whopping 12 hairpin turns that'll keep your hands busy on the wheel. The good news? It stays open year-round, so you can experience this beauty in different seasons. Once you reach the summit, you'll find a peaceful parking area and a restaurant where you can catch your breath and grab some fuel. But the real heart of this place is the wrought iron cross standing at the top—a moving memorial to partisans Arrigo Papazzoni "Linda" and Peis Sparin Pio "Brusco" who lost their lives here during WWII on June 14, 1944. It's a sobering reminder of the region's rich history. Nature lovers, take note: the source of the Tagliamento River lies just south of the pass, adding another layer of natural beauty to your journey through these incredible Alps.
moderateWhere is Calar Alto?
🇪🇸 Spain
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk about the road up to Calar Alto, nestled in the Sierra de Los Filabres mountains of southern Spain. This isn't just any drive – it's a 32.4 km (20.13 miles) climb into the clouds! We're talking serious elevation here, topping out where the air gets thin and the views get epic. The good news? It's all paved! The less-than-good news? Keep an eye out for rough patches thanks to those heavy snowfalls. And hold on tight because this baby has some seriously steep sections, hitting a maximum gradient of 10%! The real reward is reaching the summit where the Calar Alto astronomical observatory awaits. Prepare for mind-blowing panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. It's a journey for those who crave breathtaking scenery and a bit of an adrenaline rush. Get ready for an unforgettable Spanish road trip!
moderateWhere is Guayadeque Ravine?
🇪🇸 Spain
Cruising through the Barranco de Guayadeque ravine in Gran Canaria is an absolute must-do! You'll find this incredible spot on the eastern side of the island, separating the towns of Ingenio and Agüimes. Getting there is easy – just hop on the GC-103 from Agüimes. This paved road winds for about 9.5 km (5.9 miles) into the ravine, and while it's mostly smooth sailing, watch out for the odd pothole. Keep in mind it's a dead-end, so you'll have to double back! So, is it worth the drive? Absolutely! The views are breathtaking, and the ravine is bursting with unique flora and fauna. Plus, it’s packed with history! You'll see tons of cave houses, some even converted into restaurants and a hermitage. These caves were once home to the island's original inhabitants. Don't miss the Guayadeque Visitor Center at the start – it's a great place to learn about the lives of the Canarian aborigines. As you drive deeper, the cliffs get seriously dramatic, towering over 300 meters. The road is usually open all year, but sometimes it’s closed to cars during busy holidays, so be sure to check before you go!
moderateCol de Bretaye
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Col de Bretaye Ready for an alpine adventure? Head to the Swiss Alps in Vaud canton and tackle Col de Bretaye, sitting pretty at 1,806m (5,925ft) above sea level. The route up—Chemin de Bretaye—is a paved path that doesn't mess around. This is a seriously steep climb that'll test your legs and your lungs, but the payoff is totally worth it. Once you've conquered the summit, reward yourself at the mountain restaurant up there. Nothing beats catching your breath with a hot drink while taking in those incredible alpine views.