Col de la Montee du Fond is a brutally tough road in France
France, europe
28.3 km
3,007 m
extreme
Year-round
# Col de la Montée du Fond: Europe's Ultimate Alpine Challenge
Ready for one of Europe's most extreme driving experiences? Welcome to Col de la Montée du Fond, sitting at a jaw-dropping 3,007m (9,865ft) in Orelle, Savoie, deep in the southeastern French Alps.
This isn't your typical mountain pass. We're talking about a 28.3 km (17.58 miles) unpaved ski-lift service road that connects the legendary Val Thorens ski resort with the tiny village of Orelle. And honestly? It's absolutely bonkers.
Here's what you're getting into: a brutal, relentless climb featuring 55 numbered hairpin turns that'll test your nerve and your vehicle's suspension. The numbered corners keep you sane-ish as you navigate gradients averaging 10.4%, with sections hitting a spine-tingling 17-18%. This is 4x4 territory only—no exceptions.
But the payoff? Panoramic views that stretch across a thousand summits spanning France, Switzerland, and Italy. You'll twist and turn through the stunning Massif de la Vanoise range, sometimes driving directly beneath the ski chairlift you're roughly shadowing.
The road is only accessible July and August when conditions allow, so planning is essential. Located east of Col de Rosael and Col de Caron, this is peak adventure territory for serious drivers seeking one of the highest drivable roads in the continent.
Where is it?
Col de la Montee du Fond is a brutally tough road in France is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 46.1915, 2.8134
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 28.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,007 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 46.1915, 2.8134
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