A steep paved road to Lake Goscheneralp
Switzerland, europe
9.6 km
1,786 m
hard
Year-round
# Göscheneralpsee
Nestled in Switzerland's Urner Alps at a breathtaking 1,786 meters (5,859 feet), Göscheneralpsee is a stunning high mountain reservoir that's absolutely worth the drive. Located in Canton Uri within the picturesque Göschenen Valley, this spot delivers serious Alpine vibes.
The 9.6-kilometer (5.96-mile) route from Göschenen is fully paved, though fair warning—it's narrow and genuinely steep. You're looking at an elevation gain of 680 meters over that distance, with an average gradient of 7.08% and some sections pushing 12%. But here's the good news: it stays open year-round, so you can chase this view in any season.
The drive itself is an adventure. You'll navigate a few tunnels and some seriously tight sections that demand your full attention and careful handling—but honestly, that's what makes it thrilling. The payoff? You'll arrive at a parking area and mountain hut with some of the most spectacular Alpine scenery you can imagine. Just take your time, stay focused, and soak in every curve of this incredible mountain route.
Where is it?
A steep paved road to Lake Goscheneralp is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.8591, 8.3158
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 9.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,786 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.8591, 8.3158
Related Roads in europe
hardDriving the Military Brenner Grenzkammstrasse Road
🇦🇹 Austria
# Brennergrenzkammstraße: A Historic Alpine Trek Straddling the border between Italy's South Tyrol and Austria's Tirol region near the Brenner Pass, the Brennergrenzkammstraße is a genuinely unique way to experience the Alps. This 45km (27.96 miles) unpaved trail winds along the high mountain ridge at elevations reaching 2,247m (7,372ft), offering stunning views that few ever get to witness. Built during World War I as a military supply route, this narrow, steep path connects a fascinating network of old fortresses and military structures that still dot the landscape—perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. The average 8-percent gradient means you'll definitely feel the climb, and after rain, the surface gets seriously slippery, so timing your visit matters. Fair warning: this isn't a summer-to-fall kind of road. Winter weather makes it completely impassable, and you'll need to be prepared for severe conditions even during the hiking season. Plus, it's closed to motor vehicles, so you'll be on foot or two wheels, which honestly adds to the charm of getting away from the tourist crowds. If you're up for a challenging, historically rich alpine adventure with killer views and genuine solitude, this border ridge walk is absolutely worth adding to your bucket list.
extremeWhere is Strada Provinciale 18?
🇮🇹 Italy
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Italy's Autonomous Province of Trento, and you stumble upon the Strada Provinciale 18. This isn't just any road; it's carved right into the rock, hugging the cliffs high above the Laghi valley. Locals call it the Panoramica di Ranzo, and trust me, the views live up to the name. Just 20 km from Trento and 35 km from Riva del Garda, this 7.5-kilometer stretch of paved road winds its way from Ciago (just north of Vezzano) up to the charming town of Ranzo. It's a less-traveled route that plunges you straight into the stunning Paganella massif. Now, let's be real, this road isn't for the faint of heart. There are parts so narrow that two cars can barely squeeze by. And yes, there's a risk of rockslides – it's literally carved into a cliffside! But don't let that scare you off completely. The SP18 is famous for a reason. It's a total nail-biter, but those views! You'll be staring down at Vezzano, Fraveggio, Monte Terlago, Ciago, and Lon. Keep an eye out for the panoramic viewpoint near Ranzo; it's the perfect spot to pull over and soak it all in. Built in 1948 to connect isolated towns, the road used to be quite treacherous. Landslides were a serious problem. Thankfully, safety improvements in 2016, like rockfall barriers and netting, have made the drive much safer, but still exciting.
hardA fabulous narrow road to the top to Col de l’Hysope
🇫🇷 France
# Col de l'Hysope Nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region of southeastern France, Col de l'Hysope sits at a respectable 1,236m (4,055ft) elevation and makes for one seriously thrilling mountain adventure. The 26.9km (16.71 miles) journey along the D3 road winds its way north-south from Authon down to Champtercier, and let me tell you—this isn't your average Sunday drive. The pavement is solid throughout, but the road is genuinely *narrow*. We're talking white-knuckle narrow with hairpin turns that seem to multiply the higher you climb. The steep sections don't mess around either, with gradients maxing out at a stomach-dropping 14.8%. Here's the real talk: if tight mountain passes make you nervous, this one's probably not for you. And seriously, you better be comfortable with reversing on a mountainside—because you will need to be. This road demands skill and confidence behind the wheel. But here's what makes it worth the effort—that summit payoff is absolutely incredible. You'll find a stunning natural viewpoint that'll make every tight turn worth it, plus a little parking spot where you can catch your breath and soak in the views. Welcome to one of the Alps' most rewarding climbs.
moderateHow do you get to Kyparissi in Greece?
🇬🇷 Greece
Okay, picture this: you're heading to Kyparissi, a super cute, secluded village on the Peloponnese coast of Greece. But getting there? That's half the adventure! The road is a total white-knuckle ride – about 14.6 km (9 miles) of pure, paved craziness snaking along the mountainside. We're talking hairpin turns, super narrow sections, and basically no guardrails separating you from some seriously steep drop-offs. If you're not a fan of heights, maybe focus on the road ahead! But honestly, the views are insane – lush green ravines and dramatic cliffs meeting the bright blue sea. It's thanks to this wild road that Kyparissi has stayed so unspoiled. About two-thirds of the way there, you will be presented with a small Byzantine church right at the opening to the sea where you can stop and take a break. After your rest, it’s about a harrowing twenty minutes down the mountain. This road, built back in the '60s, is what keeps Kyparissi a hidden gem – even famous faces like George W. Bush, Prince Charles, and Princess Diana have vacationed here. So, buckle up and get ready for a drive you won't forget!