Mirador del Tapadero
Spain, europe
9.7 km
1,124 m
hard
Year-round
# Mirador del Tapadero
Nestled in Jaén, a gorgeous province in southeastern Andalusia, this natural viewpoint sits at a breathtaking 1,124 meters (3,687 feet) above sea level. If you're craving panoramic views and don't mind a bit of an adrenaline rush, this spot is absolutely worth the drive.
The journey starts from the A-6202 and climbs 9.7km upward, gaining 572 meters of elevation with an average gradient of 5.89%. Fair warning: this isn't your typical Sunday drive. The road—known as Transversal de las Villas—is paved but narrow, winding through 20 hairpin turns that'll keep you alert and focused. Those sharp curves combined with steep dropoffs mean you'll definitely want to take your time and keep your wits about you.
The real reward? You'll reach an outcrop perched dramatically on a rock wall with sheer sides plunging about 200 meters down into a chasm. From up there, you get jaw-dropping views of the Sierra de las Villas, and you're surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas National Park. It's the kind of viewpoint that makes all those hairpin turns feel totally worth it—just approach with respect and caution.
Where is it?
Mirador del Tapadero is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 39.8018, -3.5526
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 9.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,124 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 39.8018, -3.5526
Related Roads in europe
moderateHelgeland Coast National Tourist Route
🇳🇴 Norway
# Helgelandskysten: Norway's Coastal Masterpiece Ready for one of Norway's most jaw-dropping scenic drives? The Helgelandskysten (FV17/County Road 17) in Northern Nordland is an absolute must-do for any road trip enthusiast. This 433-kilometer coastal adventure winds from Holm to Godøystraumen, hugging the shoreline with stunning views at practically every turn. The route is mostly asphalted, though you'll encounter some narrow sections that'll keep you on your toes. Fair warning: this journey includes several ferry crossings, so factor those into your travel time. And if you've got the time, definitely take the scenic detour to Torghatten—it's worth every kilometer. Expect some genuine thrills along the way, especially at Fantesteinen Pass, where you'll navigate winding roads with a few seriously fun hairpin turns that'll get your adrenaline pumping. The highest point tops out at 346 meters, so while it's not extreme elevation-wise, the scenery more than makes up for it. The good news? This route is open year-round, so you can experience it whenever inspiration strikes. Just keep in mind that winter weather can occasionally close sections temporarily when conditions get rough—typical Norwegian drama, really. Overall, combining routes 17, 76, and 54, this is an unforgettable coastal escape that showcases everything that makes Northern Norway special.
extremeDriving to Stausee Mattmark is an absolute must for road lovers
🇨🇭 Switzerland
# Mattmark See: A Alpine Gem Worth the Drive Tucked away in Switzerland's Valais region near the Italian border, Mattmark See is a stunning high-altitude reservoir sitting pretty at 2,197m (7,208ft) above sea level. Nestled in the scenic Saas Valley, this is the kind of destination that makes the drive totally worth it. The road up? Absolutely pristine. Built between 1960 and 1965, the fully paved route is in fantastic condition and genuinely fun to tackle. Starting from the charming village of Saas-Almagell (1,673m), you've got a 7.3 km climb ahead with 524 meters of elevation gain. The average gradient sits at a manageable 7.2%, so nothing too brutal for the first stretch. But here's where it gets interesting: save the best for last. The final 2 km really turn up the heat, averaging around 10% gradient. And just when you think it can't get any steeper, the last half-kilometer before the dam hits a serious 14% gradient. It's gloriously steep and straight, making for an intense but incredibly rewarding finale. The payoff? A glacier looming above the finish line and one of those "I earned this view" moments that make mountain driving so addictive. If you're hunting for a short, punchy alpine climb with killer scenery, Mattmark See delivers in spades.
hardHow To Have The Ultimate Road Trip To Le Signal in the Provence
🇫🇷 France
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies, because Le Signal in the French Alps is calling your name! Perched high in the department of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, at a cool 2,350 meters (that's 7,709 feet!), this peak offers views that'll make your jaw drop. Now, here's the thing: this isn't your Sunday drive kind of road. We're talking a rough and rugged unpaved track – a chairlift access road, actually, so leave the family sedan at home! Private vehicles aren't technically allowed. The climb is short but intense, only about 500 meters long, but be ready for some serious gradients. We're talking ramps hitting a maximum of 19%! You'll gain 72 meters in elevation, making for an average gradient of 14.4%. This road is nestled west of the stunning Parc National du Mercantour, so the scenery is absolutely epic. Think classic South French Alps. Just a heads up: winters here are brutal, so this road is a no-go during the snowy months. Definitely a 4x4-only situation!
moderateWhere is Drumbeg Road?
🇬🇧 Scotland
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! You HAVE to experience the Drumbeg Road (B869) in the Assynt district of Sutherland, Scotland. Seriously, people rave about this being one of the most stunning coastal drives in the whole country, and they aren't wrong. This little gem winds its way for about 22 miles (35.4km) from Lochinver to Unapool in the northern Highlands, and you'll want at least an hour and a half to soak it all in. And trust me, you'll want to stop! Think turquoise waters, white sandy beaches (Achmelvich and Clachtoll are must-sees!), and unbelievable views of lochs, mountains, and the rugged coastline. This drive is a feast for the eyes. Now, a word of warning: this isn't a relaxing cruise. It's a single-track road, meaning it's super narrow! Add some steep hills, hairpin turns (some you can't even see around!), and dramatic drops right down to the sea, and you've got yourself a real driving adventure. It hits a maximum gradient of 25% in places! You'll climb to a dizzying 436 feet (132m) above sea level. Definitely not for the faint of heart, or those driving a caravan or coach! The best time to experience the road is during the off-season. While it's blissfully empty in winter, it can be chaotic with tourists flocking to the beaches during the summer months. Whenever you go, be prepared to use those passing places to let others by, and pull over often to snap some photos. This is one Scottish road trip you won't forget!