You'll never forget the road to Lac de Cema
France, europe
0.9 km
2,745 m
moderate
Year-round
# Lac de Céma: Alpine Adventure at the Top of France
Tucked away in the Savoie department of southeastern France, near the Italian border, Lac de Céma sits at a breathtaking 2,745 meters (9,005 feet) above sea level. This stunning high-altitude lake is nestled in the heart of the Graian Alps within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
The journey here starts from Col de l'Iseran—yes, that's the legendary "King of the Alps"—where you'll take the Chemin du Pissaillas for just 900 meters (0.55 miles) to reach the lake. It's a short but scenic drive that ranks among France's highest roads, ending at a spacious parking lot near La Cascade restaurant, the perfect spot to grab a bite after your climb.
Fair warning: the road is mostly paved, but Mother Nature hasn't been kind to it. Heavy snow takes its toll, leaving the surface pretty potholed and rough in places. If you're feeling adventurous, an unpaved track climbs even higher to the west, reaching 2,793 meters (9,163 feet) for those seeking extra elevation bragging rights.
The catch? This road is strictly a summer affair, typically open from May or June through October, so plan your visit accordingly. But when conditions are right, the alpine scenery and crisp mountain air make every bump worth it.
Where is it?
You'll never forget the road to Lac de Cema is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 45.9509, 2.4562
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 0.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,745 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 45.9509, 2.4562
Related Roads in europe
extremeUnveiling Iceland's Wild Side: Top 9 Thrilling Tours Along Its Most Dangerous Roads
🇮🇸 Iceland
The Golden Circle, but make it *extreme*! We're talking ditching the tour buses for a 4x4 and venturing way off the beaten path. Think secret geysers that'll blow your mind, hidden waterfalls you won't find on any map, and landscapes so untouched they'll make you feel like you're the first human to ever see them. And the best part? You get to crash in Reykjavik at the end of the day! Comfort meets adventure – Icelandic style. Thorsmork Valley, AKA Thor's Valley, is calling all adventure junkies. This isn't your typical scenic drive; it's a full-blown odyssey into Iceland's rugged heart. Lush valleys meet towering mountains, all guarded by glacial rivers you'll actually have to *cross*. Forget paved roads – we're talking rough, raw, and real. The views are insane, though, totally worth the white-knuckle drive! Landmannalaugar – get ready for another world! Imagine mountains painted with a rainbow of colors, steaming hot springs that practically scream "relax here," and fields of lava that look like they belong on Mars. Getting there is half the fun, a true off-road adventure with river crossings and bumpy gravel tracks. But trust me, soaking in those hot springs surrounded by those crazy landscapes is an experience you won't forget. Fjallabak Nature Reserve is a hidden gem for those who crave the wild. Forget the crowds – here, it's just you and some seriously stunning scenery. Think steep mountains, lava fields begging to be explored, and rivers that look like they've never been touched by humans. This place is all about solitude and connecting with nature in its purest form. Get ready to unplug and immerse yourself in Iceland's untamed beauty. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is like Iceland in miniature, and it's begging to be explored. Forget the well-trodden paths and take the roads less traveled! You'll pass the iconic Snaefellsjokull glacier and dramatic cliffs, plus charming fishing villages, black sand beaches, and lava fields. It is perfect for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. The Westfjords: if "remote and rugged" is your jam, you need to get here. Picture this: narrow roads clinging to the edge of cliffs, views that'll take your breath away (if the drive doesn't first!), and villages that feel like they're stuck in time. The Westfjords are not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare, the reward is an unforgettable experience in one of Iceland's most pristine and dramatic regions. Askja Caldera and the Dyngjufjoll Mountains are where things get seriously otherworldly. We're talking lunar landscapes, massive volcanic craters, and a feeling like you're on another planet. Getting there is a challenge – the roads are rough, the terrain is unforgiving, but the reward is standing on the edge of one of Iceland's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Prepare to be amazed. The Reykjanes Peninsula is basically a live geology lesson. Here, the Earth's raw power is on full display – steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and lava fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. This place is unlike anything you've ever seen, from the famous Blue Lagoon to the hidden geothermal spots. It's a reminder of the wild, untamed forces that shape our planet. Last but not least, the Kjolur Highland Route: an ancient trail snaking between glaciers? Yes, please! Forget the crowds and embrace the solitude on this remote road. You'll find vast lava fields, relaxing hot springs and the surreal beauty of Hveravellir, a geothermal oasis perfect for a wild swim. The Kjolur Route isn't just a drive; it's a soul-stirring adventure that will leave you breathless.
hardWhere is Col de l’Infernet?
🇫🇷 France
Okay adventurers, listen up! Deep in the French Alps, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, awaits Col de l’Infernet! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a climb to 2,380 meters (7,810 ft) above sea level, a real lung-buster! Up top, you'll find Fort de l’Infernet, a seriously cool old French fort from the 19th century. Picture this: the last fort built with cut stone, equipped with huge guns and mortars and once connected to the valley by a mule-powered tramway! Now, the road itself? It's unpaved and rough, originally built for army vehicles. Think steep, narrow sections, slippery spots, and major drop-offs – definitely not for the faint of heart. From the paved road to the summit, you're looking at roughly 5.5 kilometers of challenging terrain with an average gradient of 9.5%. But the views? Absolutely worth it. Along the way, you'll be treated to amazing views and loads of historical remnants – old forts, gun placements, and barracks dot the landscape. Fair warning: this road is usually closed in winter due to snow, and even in summer, conditions can change quickly. So, check before you go and prepare for an unforgettable Alpine adventure!
hardHow difficult is the road to Yalın Dağ?
🇹🇷 Turkey
Yalın Dağ is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,950m (9,678ft) above sea level, located in the Van province of eastern Turkey. It is one of the highest motorable roads in the country, offering a raw driving experience near the Iranian border. It’s one of the highest roads of the country Set in a remote and desolate landscape, the road to the summit is entirely unpaved. Due to the loose surface and the altitude, a 4x4 vehicle is mandatory to reach the top. This is a high-alpine environment where the weather rules the road; the track is usually buried under snow and remains impassable from late October until late June or even early July, depending on how fast the snow melts each year. Road facts: Yalın Dağ Van Province, Eastern Anatolia (Turkey) How difficult is the road to Yalın Dağ? Driving to the summit is a challenge because of the steepness of the terrain and the high altitude. The ascent starts at the settlement of , and from there, you face an 11-kilometer (6.83 miles) climb. During this stretch, the road gains 573 meters in elevation. While the average gradient is 5.20% , there are much steeper sections that will test your vehicle's traction and cooling system. It is a slow, bumpy drive through a barren mountain range where you won't find any services or help, so you must be fully prepared before starting the climb. Travelling through the Demirkapı-Ballıköy road The road among the clouds from Çamlıyayla to Delimahmutlu Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
easyHow to drive the scenic Hardangervidda National Tourist Route in eastern Norway?
🇳🇴 Norway
# Hardangervidda National Tourist Route Ready for one of Norway's most jaw-dropping drives? Road 7 (RV7) is a 67 km stretch that'll have you questioning why you ever drove anywhere else. Starting in Eidfjord down in Fjord Norway and ending in Haugastøl over in Eastern Norway, this fully paved route takes you straight through Hardangervidda National Park and across the biggest high mountain plateau in all of Northern Europe. The drive climbs to a respectable 1,250 meters above sea level, and here's the best part—it's open year-round. Thanks to the Hardanger Bridge, you won't need to worry about ferries either. Winter driving is definitely doable, though you'll want to pack winter tires and be prepared for occasional closures when the weather turns seriously gnarly. But honestly? Even winter here is spectacular. This is the kind of road that makes you understand why people fall in love with Norwegian landscapes. Buckle up and go experience it.