Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo
Italy, europe
5.3 km
1,908 m
extreme
Year-round
# Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo: A Heart-Pounding Alpine Adventure
Nestled in the Dolomites of northeastern Italy, Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo sits at a breathtaking 1,908m (6,259ft) elevation—and trust us, the drive to get there is just as breathtaking. This old military road is not for the faint of heart.
What you're getting into: think steep, winding switchbacks that seem to go on forever, with sections so narrow that oncoming traffic becomes a genuine puzzle. In plenty of places, you're essentially driving along a cliff edge with no guardrails between you and a drop that'll make your stomach flip. But here's the kicker—someone recently gave the road a fresh coat of asphalt, which sounds great until you hit those brutal 29% grade ramps covered in loose gravel outside the tire tracks. It keeps things interesting, that's for sure.
The route spans just 5.3km from Misurina (extending to 6.3km if you push to where the gravel begins), climbing over three mountain passes: Forcella Bassa, Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo, and Forcella Àuta/Alta before ending at the Rifugio Bois at Monte Piana.
The payoff? Phenomenal. You're practically neighbors with the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and the views are absolutely camera-worthy. Plus, Monte Piana is steeped in World War I history—this area saw intense battles between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces, and you'll spot remnants throughout. It's a place where adventure meets history, making for an unforgettable drive.
Where is it?
Forcella de Mèdo/di Mezzo is located in Italy (europe). Coordinates: 42.3987, 12.5329
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 5.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,908 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 42.3987, 12.5329
Related Roads in europe
moderateMonte Colmo
🇮🇹 Italy
# Monte Colmo Tucked away in Lombardy's stunning High Camonica valley, Monte Colmo is a serious alpine challenge sitting pretty at 1,933 meters (6,341 feet). This mountain pass in Italy's Brescia province isn't messing around—it's a real test of your driving skills and nerves. The paved route, Via Monte Colmo, climbs an intense 12.5 kilometers starting from the charming town of Edolo (675m). What makes this pass particularly thrilling? Several tunnels punctuate the ascent, including one seriously long stretch that's unlit—so definitely pack some headlights and a sense of adventure. With an average gradient of 9.4% and sections hitting a brutal 12%, this isn't your casual Sunday drive. The consistent, punishing climbs demand respect and attention, making every hairpin and switchback feel like you've earned it. If you're after authentic alpine driving with real elevation gains and dramatic mountain scenery, Monte Colmo delivers the goods.
moderateIs Road 9552 unpaved?
🌍 Finland
Okay, buckle up for an unforgettable Finnish adventure on Road 9552! Nestled in the wilds of northern Finland, this road is a real mixed bag of pavement and gravel, but they're slowly paving the whole thing. The southern section is smooth sailing on asphalt, but in the middle, you'll hit some pretty decent gravel. Up north, be prepared for a rougher ride on unpaved sections – a high-clearance vehicle is definitely your friend here. Stretching for about 75 kilometers (46 miles), running from Road 955 close to , this beauty is lightly trafficked, so you'll mostly have the wilderness to yourself. Think lush forests and seriously stunning views. Autumn is when this road truly shines – the colors are absolutely unreal! Just remember, this is a remote area, so come prepared. You'll feel the true solitude of this uninhabited landscape. If you have car trouble, help could be a while away.
extremeWhat You Need to Know About Driving the Road F232 in Iceland
🇮🇸 Iceland
Get ready for an Icelandic adventure on the F232, also known as Öldufellsleið! This isn't your average Sunday drive; we're talking serious 4x4 territory in the Southern Region, near the Vatnajökull National Park, north of the Myrdalsjökull glacier. Forget smooth asphalt, this is a rugged roller coaster through Fjallabak's lunar landscape of black sand and lava dunes. Spanning from Road 209 near Hrífunes to Road F210 by the Hólmsá river, this summer-only (late June to early September) track serves up a healthy dose of potholes, ruts, and boulder fields. Seriously, leave the sedan at home! We're talking full-size 4x4 with high clearance. The scenery? Unbelievable. Think volcanic vistas and that otherworldly, desolate beauty Iceland is famous for. But be warned: you're on your own out here. This road is remote, with few fellow travelers, and cell service can be spotty, so make sure your vehicle is in top condition. And speaking of solo… those river crossings? Yeah, they're for real. The Bláfjallakvísl river is one of the challenges here, and tackling these icy rivers requires experience and a properly equipped jeep. River conditions can change quickly, so check depths and don't even think about it during heavy rain or alone. Remember, rental car insurance usually doesn’t cover water damage, so proceed with caution. Amazing by day, potentially treacherous by night – this is one Icelandic adventure you won’t forget!
hardAn abandoned road through Dobroselicki Prerast cave
🌍 Serbia
Okay, adventurers, listen up! Hidden in the Zlatibor Mountains near Čajetina, Serbia, lies the incredible Dobroselički Prerast. This isn't your average scenic overlook; it's a massive through-cave that you can (well, *could*) drive through! Finding this gem is half the adventure. Tucked away just off Road 23, near the village of Dobroselica, you'll need your map and navigation skills on point. Trust me, signage is practically non-existent. Picture this: a 48-meter long cave, 12 meters wide, acting as a natural bridge. This geological marvel boasts a 12-meter high entrance and a 16-meter high exit. It's one of the largest stone bridges in Serbia! Now, here's the slightly sad part: while a road *used* to run right through this cave, it's been abandoned. Nature has started to reclaim it, with weathering and rockfall blocking the old path. A new road winds around a nearby hill, but you can still trace the original route with a footpath that takes you through the cave itself! Dobroselički Prerast is truly a sight to behold, attracting hikers and those looking for a unique off-the-beaten-path experience. Just remember, this natural wonder is in a pretty remote spot, and the turnoff can be easily missed. Come prepared, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!