Driving the D22, a balcony road in France

# The D22: A Thrilling Ride Above the French Riviera

Picture this: you're perched high above the glittering Côte d'Azur, winding your way through one of France's most famous balcony roads. Welcome to the D22, a legendary stretch in the Alpes-Maritimes that's earned its reputation as an icon among serious cyclists and drivers alike.

This isn't your average scenic drive. Starting right from the seafront in Menton (near the Italian border), the D22 climbs a jaw-dropping 18.5 km through a relentless series of sharp, narrow switchbacks. You'll tackle three notable cols—Bausson (732m), Madone de Gorbio (927m), and Saint-Pancrace (673m)—each one narrowing the road even further as you ascend. The gradient hits a brutal 12% in places, and thanks to the razor-sharp blind corners and near-nonexistent guard rails, this isn't a road to take lightly if you're afraid of heights.

Fair warning: the road is barely wide enough for two cars to pass, there are no center lines, and you'll encounter five unlit tunnels carved straight into the rock. The asphalt is solid, but there's virtually no reprieve—it's relentless climbing all the way. Come summer, expect scorching heat and packed roads as tourists flock to Menton in July and August.

But here's the payoff: the views are absolutely stunning. As you wind higher, the Mediterranean unfolds beneath you in breathtaking panoramas, with Monaco sparkling in the distance. The road stays open year-round, making it the perfect pilgrimage for anyone wanting to test themselves on one of Europe's most spectacular mountain drives. Just bring your camera—you'll want to capture every moment.