
Where is Sertavul Geçidi?
Turkey, europe
70.5 km
1,664 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Sertavul Geçidi, a mountain pass sitting pretty high at 1,664m (5,459ft) up where Mersin meets Karaman in Turkey. This isn't just any road—it's a historical hotspot! Word has it, even Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa trekked through here back in 1190.
You'll find this beauty in southern Turkey, linking the sunny Mediterranean vibes to the heart of Central Anatolia. The entire 70.5 km (43.8 miles) stretch, known as D715, is paved, winding from Karaman down to Mut.
Keep an eye out! While generally open year-round, winter can throw some curveballs with heavy snow, blizzards, and fog sometimes causing closures. But if you catch it right, the scenery is absolutely worth the trip!
Road Details
- Country
- Turkey
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 70.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,664 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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