Laghi di Palasina
Italy, europe
N/A
2,445 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! We're heading to Laghi di Palasina, a stunning alpine lake nestled high in the Aosta Valley of Italy at a whopping 2,445 meters (that's over 8,000 feet!).
The road? Well, let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Think gravel, think rocks, and think sections that will really test your driving skills. A 4x4 is your best friend here, trust me. And keep an eye on the sky – the weather can turn on a dime. Closures are common, so be prepared.
Up here, the wind is practically a permanent resident, and the altitude can definitely get to you, so take it easy. But the payoff? Oh, the payoff! You'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping vistas of the Mont Blanc range and the gorgeous Val d'Ayas stretching out beneath you. This is a trip you won't soon forget!
Road Details
- Country
- Italy
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 2,445 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in europe
extremeWhere is Col de la Machine?
🇫🇷 France
Cruising through the Drôme department of France? You HAVE to check out the Col de la Machine! This epic mountain pass sits at a cool 1,011m (3,316ft) and is part of the famous balcony roads in the French Alps. Built way back between 1861 and 1898, this route is legendary and known as the D76. Think sheer drops, short tunnels, and a road carved right into the side of the Vercors massif – it's all about those views (and maybe a little vertigo!). The road stretches for 31 km (19.26 miles) between Saint-Jean-en-Royans and Vassieux-en-Vercors, running north to south. Picture this: you're driving on a road seemingly etched into towering cliffs, passing through tunnels and natural arches. It's wild! Seriously, pull over and take it all in. The drop is real. Cyclists and motorcyclists, you've been warned! That low wall isn't going to save you, so keep it centered.
easyDriving the scenic Rondane National Tourist Route in Norway
🇳🇴 Norway
# Rondane National Tourist Route If you're hunting for one of Norway's most stunning scenic drives, the Rondane National Tourist Route in Hedmark is absolutely calling your name. This iconic 75km (46 miles) stretch runs north-south from Venabygdsfjellet to Folldal, and it's completely paved—perfect for a smooth ride. The route follows Roads 27 and 219 as it winds through the heart of the country, climbing to 1,064m (3,490ft) above sea level. You'll be skirting right along the eastern edge of Rondane National Park, and trust us, the views are incredible. Most people can knock out the drive in about 1.5 to 2 hours if they're just passing through, but why would you want to rush? The real magic happens when you actually stop and soak it all in. The route is dotted with thoughtfully designed pull-offs—perfect spots for stretching your legs, catching some serious hiking, or just snapping those jaw-dropping photos. You're basically getting front-row seats to authentic Norwegian wilderness. Fair warning though: winter weather can occasionally close the road for brief periods around Ringebufjellet, so check conditions if you're planning a cold-season adventure. Otherwise, this beauty stays open year-round, making it accessible whenever the mood strikes.
moderateWhere is Gorges de la Bourne?
🇫🇷 France
Cruising the Gorges de la Bourne in France is an absolute must-do if you're anywhere near the Isère and Drôme departments. Seriously, this canyon road is carved right into the side of the Vercors Regional Nature Park, and it's a wild ride. They call it one of France's balcony roads, and it's easy to see why! This 22.6km (14 mile) stretch of the D531, running from Pont-en-Royans to Villard-de-Lans, took over a decade to build back in the 1800s, and you can feel the history in every twist and turn. Speaking of twists and turns, be prepared! The road is narrow in spots, with unlit tunnels adding to the adventure. Keep an eye out for rock slides – they can happen anytime. This place gets crowded during the summer months so be prepared for traffic! But trust me, the views are worth it! Driving through this limestone gorge is like entering another world. The road hugs the river, winding through ravines with jaw-dropping scenery at every corner. And don't miss the Choranche cave – those stalactites are something else!
hardHow long is the GC-500 road?
🇪🇸 Spain
Cruising along the GC-500 in Gran Canaria, Spain, is an absolute must-do! This beauty hugs the southern coast of the island in the Province of Las Palmas and delivers non-stop panoramic views. The paved road stretches for about 45 km (28 miles) from La Playa de Mogán all the way to Vecindario. It's a twisting, turning route that really keeps you on your toes as it snakes between rock walls and dramatic drops down to the sea. Expect the drive to take around 1 to 1.5 hours if you're doing it straight through – though you'll definitely want to factor in time for photo stops! Now, a word of caution: a section between La Playa de Mogán and Taurito (known locally as Carretera Vieja or 'Old Road') has been closed off since 2017 due to serious landslide risk. Apparently, giant rocks are on the road, with even bigger ones threatening to come down. It's bypassed by the main GC-1 Road. Sadly, some people ignore the barriers – don't be tempted! Safety first! The GC-500 packs in everything you could want: hairpin turns, tunnels, and those heart-stopping cliff edges that stick to the cliffs for 25kms or more at a height of about 200 to 900 meters.