
Where is the D13 road?
France, europe
22.6 km
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along the D13 in the Pyrénées-Orientales, that gorgeous corner of France near the Spanish border. This isn't just any drive; it's a 22.6km rollercoaster snaking from Las Illas up to Llauro, and it's a total balcony road experience!
Think seriously curvy. We're talking hairpin after hairpin, barely 200 meters of straight road at any point. The road is paved, but it's narrow, a bit rough, and seriously steep in places, with some serious drop-offs. You'll wind through a cork oak forest – beautiful, but watch out for harvesting vehicles!
Locals use this road to get to their weekend chalets, so keep an eye out, especially around blind corners. The views? Postcard-perfect, especially on a sunny day. The stone walls that edge the cliff protect you from taking a tumble, but motorbikers, be extra careful! You might be on your own if you come off.
Meeting another car, especially on the "balcony" sections, can be a puzzle. Someone's definitely reversing! But it’s worth it. Pack a picnic, find a safe spot to park, and soak in the views of the gorges below. Just remember to fill up your tank beforehand – gas stations are rare around here. The D13: a truly unforgettable drive!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 22.6 km
- Difficulty
- extreme
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