Where is the Furka Pass?
Switzerland, europe
31.5 km
2,431 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Swiss Alps on Furka Pass, a legendary stretch of road that tops out at nearly 8,000 feet! This isn't just any drive; it's a 19.5-mile rollercoaster between Andermatt and Gletsch, linking the cantons of Uri and Valais with some serious hairpin action.
This beauty has been around since the 14th century, but the road itself was built in 1867. Be warned, it’s usually only open from late May to early November, thanks to all that Swiss snow.
Is it steep? Oh yeah. You're looking at an average grade of around 4.6% to 3% depending which side you’re ascending, with maximums hitting over 10%!
But trust me, it's worth it. The views are insane. We're talking glaciers (including the Rhône Glacier where you can actually walk *inside* an ice cave!), towering peaks, and lush forests. Keep an eye out for the vintage steam train chugging along the mountainside – talk about a photo op!
Sure, it can get a little hairy with all the twists and turns, especially on weekends, but the road is wide and well-maintained. Just keep an eye on the weather, because things can change fast up here. And did I mention James Bond? Yep, Goldfinger filmed a car chase right here, so you know it's got some serious cred. One curve on the east side of the pass is even named "James Bond Strasse"! So, pack your camera, fill up the tank, and get ready for an Alpine adventure you won't forget!
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 31.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,431 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
hardDriving the hairpinned Road T-704 in Prades
🇪🇸 Spain
# T-704: Spain's Rally-Famous Mountain Twister Ready for some serious switchback action? T-704 in Tarragona, southern Catalonia, is the real deal—a thrilling 29.1km (18 miles) paved mountain road that's legitimately hosted WRC Rally Catalunya. We're talking about 30+ hairpin turns that'll keep your hands busy and your adrenaline pumping. The road climbs dramatically from Reus (sitting at just 170m) up to the charming mountain town of Prades at 943m. It's a proper elevation workout. Prades itself is worth the drive—frozen and quiet in winter, but buzzing with tourists come summer months who can't resist this scenic gateway to the Muntanyes de Prades. The crown jewel? A jaw-dropping 2.2km section packed with 14 consecutive hairpin turns. This beast climbs from 680m to 817m with an average gradient of 6.2%—steep enough to feel it, smooth enough to actually enjoy the drive. And don't miss the famous "Pujada a La Mussara," a short but punchy climbing section that adds extra spice to the experience. You can usually drive this road year-round, though winter storms occasionally force temporary closures. Time your visit right, and you've got yourself an unforgettable mountain pass experience that's thrilled professional rally drivers and everyday road trippers alike.
hardWhere is Nino Corsi Refuge?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: you're in stunning Val Martello, South Tyrol, nestled in the Italian Alps. You're headed to Rifugio Nino Corsi, a charming mountain refuge (also called Zufallhütte) perched at a breathtaking 2,245m (7,365ft). The area is gorgeous, right in the heart of Stelvio National Park, with views of the Ortler Alps that will knock your socks off. Bonus: there's a cool local history museum and a sweet little mountain chapel nearby. Now, the drive. It’s about 22.7 km (14.10 miles) from Coldrano, and it's an adventure in itself. Be warned, parts of the road are steep and narrow, so keep your wits about you! Just so you know, the last couple of kilometers are gravel and off-limits to cars, but don't sweat it, the views are worth the walk. Get ready for a climb of 1,343m, this road definitely isn't for the faint of heart, but the payoff at the top is incredible.
moderateWhat’s Bardenas Reales?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, so you HAVE to check out the Bardenas Reales in northern Spain! It's this crazy, unique desert landscape that feels totally out of place in Europe. Think semi-desert badlands with bizarre clay and sandstone formations sculpted by wind and water. Seriously, the erosion is unreal! You'll see these crazy structures called "cabezos" that stick out like something from another planet. You can totally drive through it! One popular route is the Carcastillo-Figarol road (El Paso), which then hooks up with the track that runs alongside the military shooting range. Yep, you read that right. Another option is the earth track that starts near the petrol station on the edge of Carcastillo and circles the firing range. Just be warned: the area is pretty remote, and vegetation is super sparse. Most of the streams are dry too. Even though it looks barren, it's actually got a surprising amount of natural diversity! Oh, and did I mention they filmed parts of "The World Is Not Enough" here? Talk about an epic backdrop! You can easily spend a whole day cruising around on the many tracks, but definitely bring water and supplies. It’s wild out there!
hardWhere is Col de la Bâthie?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, adventure junkies, let's talk about Col de la Bâthie! You'll find this beauty tucked away in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. We're talking serious elevation here, reaching some pretty dizzying heights above sea level! Up top, you're rewarded with the Refuge du Plan du Lac—a mountain hut with views that'll make your jaw drop. Prepare to be wowed! The road itself? Oh, it's a twisty, turny treat, clocking in at totally . Be warned: you'll encounter some seriously narrow bits and super steep climbs along the way, especially on the Route Forestière de la Ravoire. Heads up for winter travelers, though: at high altitude, this road is not maintained, so plan accordingly.