Aurafreida
Switzerland, europe
N/A
2,160 m
hard
Year-round
# Aurafreida Pass
Ready for a real adventure? Aurafreida is a stunning high mountain pass sitting pretty at 2,160m (7,086ft) in the Bernina district of Graubünden, Switzerland.
Here's where things get interesting: the road starts off all civilized and nicely paved, then suddenly says "nope!" and turns into rugged gravel. We're talking seriously steep and narrow—like, barely-one-car-wide narrow. There are stretches so tight that when two vehicles meet, one driver might need to reverse for several kilometers along the twisting road just to find a spot wide enough to squeeze past each other.
The scenery is absolutely worth it, but fair warning: this elevation comes with serious winter weather. Heavy snowfall hits regularly, and the road can shut down without warning when conditions get sketchy. So if you're planning a visit, check conditions first and go prepared—this pass demands respect.
Where is it?
Aurafreida is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.6997, 7.7027
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,160 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.6997, 7.7027
Related Roads in europe
hardWhere is Pavlic Pass?
🇦🇹 Austria
Okay, adventurers, buckle up for Pavlič Pass! Straddling the border between Slovenia and Austria way up in the Julian Alps, this baby clocks in at a lofty 1,349m (4,425ft). Think stunning views connecting Lower Styria (Slovenia) with Carinthia (Austria). The road, known as Seeberg Highway on the Austrian side and route 428 in Slovenia, is all paved but gets seriously narrow in sections. This isn't a leisurely cruise; the 19.3km (almost 12 miles) from Solčava, Slovenia to Bad Vellach, Austria throws some serious steepness your way – we're talking gradients up to 15.7%! You'll wind your way through thick forests that open up to charming villages and sunny meadows. Cyclists and motorcyclists, take note: in good weather, this is your paradise. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
extremeWhere is Pico Mirandiella located?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: you're in northern Spain, right on the border of Teverga and Somiedo, in the Asturias region. You're about to tackle Pico Mirandiella. Locals whisper that this climb is "simply brutal," and, trust me, they're not kidding. We're talking about a spot nestled within the Cantabrian Mountains, inside the protected Somiedo Natural Park. You'll be towering above the famous Puerto de San Lorenzo, a cycling hotspot. Alright, the road itself... well, "road" might be a generous term. It's a short, sharp 1.9 km kick in the teeth from Puerto de San Lorenzo. Don't let the distance fool you; you’re gaining some serious elevation. We are talking a crazy steep incline. Word to the wise: unless you’re a park ranger, a farmer, or there to fix the communication tower up top, access is restricted. And even if you *are* authorized, you're going to need a serious 4x4 for this beast. Most of the track is rocky and unpaved, though you might find some concrete. It's a rough and raw ride. Why bother? The views, my friend, the VIEWS. A full 360-degree panorama of the Cantabrian Mountains and the deep valleys of Somiedo will reward you. Heads up, this climb is not for the faint of heart. Winter brings deep snow, so aim for late spring to early fall. And always, ALWAYS check the weather. This mountain plays by its own rules.
hardWhere is Creu de Miramar?
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: you're in Catalonia, Spain, in the Camp de Tarragona region, itching for an adventure. Punch "Creu de Miramar" into your GPS! This peak, also known as La Cogulla, sits pretty at 780m (2,559ft) in Alt Camp, beckoning you to explore. The road? Well, it's a bit of a mixed bag! You'll cruise smoothly on pavement until you hit the charming town of Miramar. After that, it's gravel time! The last 4.1km (2.54 miles) climb from the N-240 is where the fun really begins. You'll gain 267m in elevation, with an average gradient of 6.51%. Trust me, with those narrow parts and steep sections, you might want to bring a 4x4 along for the ride. But let me tell you, the views are SO worth it! Once you reach the top (past the communication towers and facilities), prepare to be blown away. We're talking a full 360-degree panorama that, on a clear day, stretches all the way to the Balearic Islands in the south and the majestic Pyrenees to the north. Road lovers, this is one drive you absolutely cannot miss!
hardThe extreme 33% Gradient to Rosedale Chimney is one of the steepest climbs of Europe
🇬🇧 England
Okay, buckle up thrill-seekers, because Rosedale Chimney Bank in North Yorkshire is a ride you won't soon forget! This crazy climb sits in the North York Moors National Park, south of Middlesbrough, and tops out at 312m (1,023ft). It gets its name from a now-demolished, hundred-foot chimney that once served a local ironstone mine. This paved road, all 5.95km (3.7 miles) of it, stretches from Rosedale Abbey to Hutton-le-Hole and is famed for being one of the steepest in the UK - maybe even Europe! We're talking gradients of up to 33%! Expect wind and rain – this exposed road doesn't hold back. It's also a no-go zone for lorries, caravans, and pretty much anything during the winter. The surface starts rough and gets steep right away. You'll hit a cattle grid (just to add to the fun), then brace yourself for hairpin turns where the inside is so steep you'll be hugging the far right. Then, it's a ridiculously tough stretch where sheep spectate, waiting for cyclists to lose the battle with the Chimney. Eventually, it eases to a more manageable gradient, letting you gain some momentum and reach the moor. The views are incredible, but this climb demands respect. Watch those brakes on the crazy steep turns! Leaving Rosedale Abbey, there's a sign warning of the climb ahead. The steepest 1.47 km section climbs 175 meters, averaging almost 12%. "Brutal" doesn't even begin to describe it!