Driving the wild Col des Mines
Switzerland, europe
N/A
2,327 m
moderate
Year-round
# Col des Mines: Switzerland's Rugged Alpine Challenge
Nestled in the Entremont district of Valais, Switzerland, Col des Mines sits at a breathtaking 2,327 meters (7,634 feet) above sea level. Fair warning: this isn't your typical scenic alpine drive.
The entire route is unpaved, and honestly, it's not for the faint of heart. Starting from Verbier, the road climbs steeply with surprisingly aggressive loose gravel that'll keep you white-knuckling the steering wheel. Summer is really your only window to tackle this beast—and even then, you might need to wait until late June or even July in tougher years before the snow clears enough to make it passable.
Here's a fun tidbit of history: back in the 1800s, miners struck gold—well, actually lead and silver (a 60/40 mix, to be exact). The deposit was worked until 1861 when it dried up, but the pass's name keeps that mining heritage alive today.
If you're up for an authentic, no-frills alpine adventure with stunning views and a serious dose of adrenaline, Col des Mines delivers. Just come prepared, come in summer, and come with respect for what this mountain has to offer.
Where is it?
Driving the wild Col des Mines is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.8868, 8.5115
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,327 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.8868, 8.5115
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