How to get to the La Merica viewpoint?
Spain, europe
N/A
817 m
hard
Year-round
La Merica viewpoint, way up at 817m (2,680ft) on La Gomera's west coast in the Canary Islands, is seriously something else. You're hanging high above Valle Gran Rey, and the drive is pure coastal drama.
The road itself, Camino el Santo, kicks off from the GM-1 highway and rambles towards El Berodal. Sure, the first bit near Plaza de la Ermita de El Santo is paved, but then it turns into a proper, rugged dirt track hugging the mountain ridge.
Now, this drive isn't for the easily spooked. Think seriously steep drops straight into the ocean and valley – we're talking *massive*. There are basically no safety barriers, and the Atlantic winds can get pretty wild up there. You'll need your wits about you, especially when the cliff edge feels way too close for comfort.
Dating back to the 17th century, this old track was a lifeline for the locals. These days, you get insane views of the Atlantic, and on a good day, you can even spot another island. Keep an eye out for wild goats chilling on the dry, volcanic hills – it's classic La Gomera scenery.
For tackling Camino el Santo, a car with decent ground clearance is a good shout. The real challenge, though, is the height! Always check the wind forecast before you head up, because it can get unpredictable. Trust me, this is a drive you won't forget in a hurry – history meets some of the most epic landscapes in the Canary Islands.
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 817 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in europe
extremeA daunting unpaved road to Bivacco Carmagnola
🇮🇹 Italy
# Bivacco Carmagnola: A High-Alpine Adventure Perched at a breathtaking 2,840m (9,317ft) in Italy's Piedmont region, Bivacco Carmagnola is a high mountain refuge tucked into the Maira Alta Valley in the Province of Cuneo. What makes this place special? It's built on the bones of an abandoned military barracks—one of many remnants from Italy's fascinating Alpine Wall defense system. The 15.7 km (9.75 miles) drive from Villaro is absolutely not for the faint of heart. You're looking at a relentless climb gaining 1,453m in elevation with an average gradient of 9.25%—this is some seriously steep terrain. The entire route is unpaved and rough, with sections so narrow you'll be white-knuckling the steering wheel. And here's the kicker: the final 100 meters? Genuinely sketchy. Landslides frequently wipe out portions of the road, and the last stretch is legitimately dangerous. You'll absolutely need a 4x4 vehicle, and honestly, even experienced drivers find this one legitimately daunting. The payoff, though? As you crawl up this gnarly mountain road, you'll pass crumbling barracks, casemates, and bunkers—ghostly reminders of WWII-era defenses. The area also offers incredible hiking and via ferrata routes for those wanting to explore further. This ranks among Italy's highest roads and is realistically only accessible during summer months. It's the ultimate test of nerve and machinery, but the history, views, and sense of accomplishment make it unforgettable.
moderateHow Long is Tunnel des Inversens?
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're in the French Alps, specifically in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, chilling near the stunning Lac des Inversens, practically on top of the world! You're up in the La Plagne ski resort area, cruising along at a seriously high elevation. Now, this isn't your average road; it's more like a cool, short tunnel— think pedestrian-friendly, but also open to vehicles (which is pretty unique). It's part of the blue ski run called, so yeah, expect some skiers! Basically, it's a handy shortcut to get you from one part of the mountain to another, letting you ditch the Carroley Mountain area with ease. The views? Absolutely epic. Just keep an eye out for those skiers!
extremeA Narrow Road to Col du Solude in the French Alps
🇫🇷 France
# Col du Solude Ready for an Alpine adventure that'll get your heart racing? Col du Solude is a seriously epic mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,680m (5,511ft) in the Oisans region of the French Alps, right in southeastern France's Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes area. This 13.6 km (8.45 miles) north-south route—officially the D210—connects Ornon to the notoriously tricky D219 Road near Villard-Notre-Dame, and it's absolutely not for the faint of heart. The northern section is smooth asphalt, but once you hit the southern portion, things get real with gravel sections that'll test your driving skills. What makes this pass truly legendary is its sheer intensity. We're talking nail-biting hairpin turns, narrow sections that'll make you hold your breath, and some seriously exposed drop-offs that remind you just how high up you are. The road even cranks up to a brutal 15.8% gradient at its steepest points. It's the kind of drive that demands respect, focus, and nerves of steel—but damn, it's unforgettable once you've conquered it. This is proper "balcony road" territory, where the scenery is as dramatic as the driving conditions. If you're chasing that authentic Alpine experience and you've got the skills to back it up, Col du Solude is calling your name.
hardWhere is Berghaus Schwaben?
🇩🇪 Germany
Okay, picture this: you're in Bavaria, surrounded by the stunning Allgäu Alps, heading towards Berghaus Schwaben, a mountain hut perched way up high at 1,517 meters. It's nestled between Weiherkopf and Riedberger Horn, deep in the southern part of Germany. Now, heads up: you can't just drive up there in your own car. The road, starting from Bolsterlang, is paved but super narrow and seriously steep, so it's off-limits to private vehicles. But if you DO get a ride up, get ready for a thrilling 5-kilometer climb! You'll gain a whopping 629 meters in elevation, which translates to an average gradient of 12.58%. Translation: It's a hefty climb. But I hear the views are totally worth the effort!