Coume Lounque
France, europe
N/A
2,362 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Coume Lounque! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a wild ride up to 2,362 meters (that's 7,749 feet!) in the stunning Hautes-Pyrénées of southwestern France.
Nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees, this "road" is actually more of a rugged, steep service trail for the Grand Tourmalet ski area. Think loose stones, seriously steep inclines (some sections hitting a crazy 30%!), and a rocky upper section that'll test your mettle.
And the views? Absolutely breathtaking. But don't get too distracted because the elements can be fierce. High winds are the norm, and even in summer, you might find yourself dodging snow. Winter temps? Let's just say you'll want to pack more than a light jacket. This route is short but challenging. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,362 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
hardPanta de Cavallers: a steep paved road to the reservoir
🇪🇸 Spain
Pantà de Cavallers is a stunning high mountain reservoir perched at 1,770m (5,807ft) in the Lleida province of Catalonia, Spain. This gem sits in the northeastern part of the country, nestled in the beautiful Boi valley within the Aiguestortes i Estany of Saint Maurici National Park. The reservoir was built back in 1958, and there's a small parking area right at the dam. Getting here is definitely an adventure. The road—also called Estanys de Tor—is the L-500, and while it's fully paved, don't let that fool you. It's seriously narrow—so tight that two average cars literally cannot pass each other. You'll be navigating through endless curves and hairpin turns, so honest warning: reversing skills are pretty much essential. If you're not comfortable backing up on a mountain road, this isn't the drive for you. Starting from Caldes de Boí, you're looking at a 4.6 km (2.85 miles) climb with 7 hairpin turns to tackle. You'll gain 299 meters in elevation, averaging a 6.5% gradient with some sections hitting 10%. The good news? The road stays open year-round, though winter weather can occasionally force temporary closures. Pick a good weather day, take your time through those curves, and you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable mountain experience.
extremeWhere is Tunnel du Mortier?
🇫🇷 France
Nestled in the Isère department of France, you'll find the abandoned Tunnel du Mortier, a relic sitting pretty at 1,370m. This beauty is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, in the southeastern part of the country. Word on the street is it was first built way back in 1911, then upgraded for the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble. Sadly, this tunnel closed its doors in 1992 after a massive rockfall wiped out the access road. Picture this: around 20,000 m3 of rock giving way, leaving a seriously unstable zone. Because it wasn't a super critical route, the powers that be decided to let it be. Nowadays, hikers and mountain bikers are the only ones who dare venture through. So, can you drive through? Technically, the tunnel itself, built wide enough for two lanes, is still there. But the road leading to it? Not so much. The first part is easy enough, but the middle gets seriously dark. Pro tip: avoid looking directly at the light at the other end; it'll mess with your vision. There's a rock slide that has cut off the road further down the climb, so you need to be very careful to cross. Getting there involves taking the D218, a paved road with some narrow bits. The southeastern side is still drivable up to the tunnel, but the northwestern side? Forget about it—completely collapsed. Expect some steep sections, with gradients hitting up to 12%. Once inside, bring a flashlight, since it’s a long tunnel and completely dark in the middle.
hardRoche de Mio
🇫🇷 France
# Roche de Mio: France's Alpine Challenge Ready for an adrenaline rush? Roche de Mio towers at 2,716 meters (8,910 feet) in the Graian Alps, nestled in the Savoie department of southeastern France. This stunning peak sits within the Vanoise Massif, and the road up there? It's absolutely wild. Here's the real deal: this isn't your typical Sunday drive. The route to the summit is gravel and rocky, with sections that'll have you gripping the wheel tight. The terrain is tippy and bumpy in places, and the ascent is seriously steep. You're looking at one of France's highest mountain roads, so elevation seekers, this one's for you. Fair warning though—only experienced off-roaders should attempt this. A 4x4 is non-negotiable, and if heights make you nervous, steer clear. The road is completely impassable from October through June due to snow, so summer is your only window. The conditions can be brutal too. After rain, the muddy track through the northern reaches of Vanoise National Park becomes treacherous. If unpaved alpine routes aren't your jam, do yourself a favor and skip this one. But if you're an adventurous driver who loves pushing boundaries? This is the kind of bucket-list road that'll stay with you forever.
hardHow long is Ryfylke National Tourist Route?
🇳🇴 Norway
Okay, picture this: you're in southern Norway, cruising along the Ryfylke National Tourist Route. This isn't just a drive, it's an experience! We're talking dramatic mountains, seriously cool rock formations, sheer cliffs, and of course, those iconic fjords Norway is famous for. Stretching for 260 km (161 miles), it's the perfect length for a multi-day adventure. Fair warning though: some parts, especially over the mountains, get a little tight with some twisty bends. Keep your eyes on the road, folks! The route winds its way from Røldal (a cute village nestled in a valley) all the way to Oanes (a charming farming village). Trust me, this trip is packed with variety. Heads up for winter travelers! The road climbs to 972m (3,188 ft) and usually closes around November, reopening in June. The section from Helandsbygd to Røldal is usually closed in the winter in November and reopens in June. So plan accordingly. Overall, if you're after breathtaking views and a true taste of Norway's natural beauty, Ryfylke is an absolute must-do.