Why is it called Commerson Crater?
France, europe
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hard
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to Réunion Island? Awesome! You absolutely HAVE to check out Cratère Commerson. This volcanic crater sits way up high – think serious altitude – on the island's volcanic slopes.
The road to get there, Route Forestière 5 du Volcan (also known as Volcano Road, fittingly!), is a real adventure. It’s unpaved, and a pretty steep climb that ends at Col des Ves, a mountain pass. The whole stretch is roughly a good few miles of winding road.
Word to the wise: the sun up there can be intense, so sunscreen is your best friend. But hey, this is a volcanic landscape! Be prepared for the weather to change on a dime. Rain is common, especially during storms, and fog can roll in fast, so keep an eye on the forecast, and pack accordingly.
Related Roads in europe
hardMonte Zovetto
🇮🇹 Italy
# Monte Zovetto: A Hidden Alpine Gem Nestled in the Vicenza province of Italy, Monte Zovetto sits pretty at 1,197 meters (3,927 feet) above sea level near the charming village of Cesuna di Roana. This is one of those drives that feels like a secret—intimate, scenic, and totally worth the effort. The road up is paved but refreshingly narrow and gloriously steep, giving you that authentic mountain-pass experience. Fair warning though: this route can shut down without notice when winter snow rolls in, so timing is everything if you're planning a visit. The good news? There's a restaurant waiting for you at the top, perfect for celebrating (or recovering from) your ascent. The numbers tell a satisfying story: just 3.3 kilometers from Cesuna to the summit, with 167 meters of elevation gain that averages out to a 5.06% grade. It's challenging enough to feel accomplished but manageable enough for most drivers who respect the road. Pack some patience for the hairpins, keep an eye on weather forecasts, and get ready for some seriously rewarding Alpine scenery.
extremeWhere is Col de la Montee du Fond?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: You're in the French Alps, in the Savoie department, ready for an off-road adventure. You're headed to Col de la Montée du Fond, clocking in at a breathtaking 3,007 meters (9,865 feet)! This isn't your average Sunday drive – it's one of Europe's highest roads, a true test of your off-roading skills. Starting near the popular Val Thorens ski resort and winding down to Orelle, this 28.3 km (17.58 mile) unpaved beast is only for 4x4s. Brace yourself for a wild ride with a staggering 55 hairpin turns – each one numbered, just so you know how far you've come (and how much further you have to go!). This road is a beast! Expect an average gradient of 10.4%, but don’t be surprised when it spikes to 17-18% on those crazy corners. But hey, the views! You'll be treated to panoramic vistas of a thousand summits across France, Switzerland, and Italy. Just remember, this road is usually only open in July and August. So, get ready for an epic, high-altitude adventure!
hardCollet de Les Barraques
🇪🇸 Spain
# Collet de Les Barraques Ready for a proper alpine challenge? This stunning mountain pass sits at 1,900m (6,233ft) in the heart of Girona, Catalonia, and it's absolutely worth the effort. The road up is fully paved, but don't let that fool you—sections hit a gnarly 10.2% gradient that'll have your engine working hard and your brakes well-earned by the top. Here's the thing about climbing this high: Mother Nature doesn't always cooperate. Snow can roll in without warning and shut things down, so check conditions before you head up. The mist around here is no joke either—visibility can drop dramatically, turning the drive into a genuine white-knuckle experience if you're not careful. Keep your wits about you and drive accordingly. The pass has serious pedigree too. It's featured in the Catalonia Volta cycling race, so you know it's a proper climb that's earned respect from the cycling world. The views and the sense of achievement when you crest the summit? Absolutely unbeatable. Just come prepared, stay alert, and you're in for an unforgettable drive through some seriously dramatic Catalan terrain.
extremeA military road to Colle della Vecchia
🇮🇹 Italy
# Colle della Vecchia: Where Mountain Dreams Meet Gravel Reality Perched at a breathtaking 2,605 meters (8,546 feet) above sea level in Turin Province, Piedmont, Colle della Vecchia ranks among Italy's most impressive mountain passes. This isn't your typical Alpine route—it's a raw, unfiltered adventure that'll test both your nerves and your vehicle. The path to the top follows an old military road called Strada Militare del Colle della Vecchia, originally carved out back in the 1880s. Here's the thing: it's closed to motor traffic, which tells you something about what you're getting into. We're talking loose gravel, relentless gradients averaging a gnarly 10.83%, and scenery that's equal parts stunning and soul-crushing depending on your perspective. Winter? Forget about it. This road becomes completely impassable once the snow arrives. Even the Italian government threw in the towel after World War II, officially labeling it "un-useful and difficult to maintain" before essentially abandoning the whole thing. But for hardcore adventurers and mountain enthusiasts, that's exactly what makes it legendary. If you're craving more alpine thrills, nearby routes like the Carzano to Peschiera Maraglio stretch and the Pampeago Pass offer their own heart-pounding charm. Just remember: bring your courage, check the weather, and respect what this mountain demands.