
The scenic trail from Gemmipass to Daubensee
Switzerland, europe
1.7 km
2,205 m
hard
Year-round
# Daubensee: A Hidden Alpine Gem
Picture this: you're standing at 2,205 meters (7,234 feet) above sea level in Switzerland's Valais region, gazing at one of the most stunning mountain lakes you've ever seen. Welcome to Daubensee, nestled in the heart of the Bernese Alps.
Here's the thing though—you can't actually drive all the way there. The road to this pristine glacial lake is completely unpaved and wonderfully narrow, hugging the shoreline at water level as it makes its way to the northern end. And yes, it's completely off-limits to vehicles, which honestly just adds to the charm.
Your adventure starts at Gemmipass (also called Gemmi Bahn) at 2,270 meters (7,448 feet). From there, you're looking at a short 1.7-kilometer (1.05-mile) journey into one of those magical, isolated alpine pockets that make you understand why people fall in love with mountains. Think dramatic glacial valleys, breathtaking vistas, and that peaceful silence you only find way up high. As a fun bit of trivia? This very pass gets a mention in Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Final Problem"—so you'd literally be walking in Sherlock Holmes's footsteps while soaking in some seriously epic scenery.
Where is it?
The scenic trail from Gemmipass to Daubensee is located in Switzerland (europe). Coordinates: 46.6993, 7.9878
Road Details
- Country
- Switzerland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 1.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,205 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 46.6993, 7.9878
Related Roads in europe
extremeRoad trip guide: Conquering Refugi Prat d'Aguiló
🇪🇸 Spain
Okay, picture this: you're in the Spanish Pyrenees, right near the French border, in Catalonia's Cerdanya region. You're aiming for Refugi de Prat Aguiló "Cèsar August Torras," a mountain hut chilling at a cool 2,000 meters (6,561 feet). The road up is *definitely* an adventure. We're talking unpaved, 4x4 territory only. It's best tackled late spring through early fall because, let's be real, mountain roads + snow = potential drama. You’re in the Parc Natural del Cadí-Moixeró, so expect stunning Pre-Pyrenean scenery, but also keep your eyes peeled for avalanches, heavy snow, landslides, and icy patches – Mother Nature's mood swings are real here. The trek starts at the entrance to Montellà, winding 15km up to the refuge, inaugurated in 1976. It's perched on the northern side of the Serra del Cadí range, right below the Gosolans pass. Think of it as your base camp for some serious mountaineering. And hey, even if you're not scaling peaks, the high mountain views? Totally worth the ride. It's classic Pyrenees beauty all the way.
moderateVaranger National Tourist Route
🇳🇴 Norway
Okay, picture this: you're cruising in Norway, and not just *anywhere* in Norway. We're talking about the designated National Tourist Routes – 18 absolute stunners that show off the country’s best scenery *and* incredible road design! Forget boring highways; these are journeys through landscapes that will leave you speechless. Think fjords, mountains, and coastlines that’ll make your jaw drop. Ten of these epic drives are right here in Western Norway. So grab your car or motorbike and let’s explore! **Varanger National Tourist Route:** 160 km of pure Arctic bliss between Varangerbotn and Hamningberg. Imagine: dramatic landscapes, rich birdlife, and long summer nights bathed in the midnight sun. Heads up, though, Hamningbergveien between Smelror and Hamningberg is closed in the winter. **Havøysund National Tourist Route:** Buckle up for 85 km of wild, windswept coastline from Kokelv to Havøysund. This is the far north, folks, so prepare for that incredible Arctic light. It's usually open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather in winter. **Senja National Tourist Route:** Get ready for 90 km of striking scenery along the outer coast of Senja Island, stretching from Gryllefjord to Botnhamn. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take the detours to Mefjordvær and Husøya, adding an extra 12 km to your trip! This one’s usually open, but watch out for winter closures. **Andøya National Tourist Route:** Calling all beach lovers! This 58 km coastal route between Andenes and Bjørnskinn on Andøya Island is all about wide-open seas and long, white beaches. It’s typically open year-round, but winter weather can cause short closures. **Lofoten National Tourist Route:** Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of the Lofoten Islands! This 230 km route from Raftsundet to Å is one of Norway's most iconic. It’s open most of the time, but keep an eye on the weather reports in winter. **Helgeland Coast National Tourist Route:** Spanning 433 km between Holm and Godøystraumen, this route is a journey through cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the Svartisen Glacier to the Vega Islands, you're in for a treat. Open most of the year, but be aware of possible winter closures. **Atlantic Road:** This 8 km stretch between Kristiansund and Molde is an experience! Sharp turns, wild nature – this is a road trip you won't forget. Open year-round, but watch for winter weather. **Geiranger - Trollstigen National Tourist Route:** Get ready for two of Norway’s most dramatic attractions! This 104 km route takes you to the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord and the thrilling Trollstigen Mountain Road. Note that Langvatnet to Geiranger is closed from November to May, and Trollstigen closes from October to May. **Rondane National Tourist Route:** This 75 km route from Muen and Sollia Church to Folldal offers a peaceful alternative to the main highways. Open most of the year, but winter closures are possible. **The Old Strynefjell National Tourist Route:** Step back in time on this 27 km masterpiece of road-building between Videseter and Grotli. Normally closed from October to June, so plan accordingly! **Sognefjellet National Tourist Route:** Climb high into the Jotunheimen mountains on this route between the Sognefjord and the Gudbrandsdalen Valley. It’s the highest mountain pass in Northern Europe! Liasanden to Turtagrø is usually closed from November to May. **Gaularfjellet National Tourist Route:** Follow the waterfalls on this 114 km route between Balestrand, Moskog, and Sande, taking you past the mighty Sognefjord. The road over Gaularfjellet is closed during winter from Mel to Mjell. **Aurlandsfjellet National Tourist Route:** Experience a barren plateau on this 49 km route between Aurlandsvangen and Lærdal. Closed over the mountain during the winter season, so plan ahead! **Valdresflye National Tourist Route:** Endless vistas await on this 49 km stretch between Garli and Hindsæter. Parts of the route are closed during the winter between Garli and Maurvangen. **Hardangervidda National Tourist Route:** Drive through Hardangervidda National Park, across Northern Europe's largest mountain plateau! This 67 km route runs between Eidfjord and Haugastøl. It's open year-round, but watch out for short winter closures. **Hardanger National Tourist Route:** Follow the scenic Hardangerfjord on this 158 km route east of Bergen. Expect mountains, fjords, and waterfalls galore! Open year-round, but be prepared for possible winter closures. **Ryfylke National Tourist Route:** This 260 km route between Oanes and Hordalia in Røldal offers a mix of green landscapes and dramatic mountains and fjords. From Helandsbygd to Røldal is normally closed from November to June. **Jæren National Tourist Route:** Open skies, wide horizons, and endless ocean await on this 41 km route between Ogna and Bore. Think sandy beaches and dunes for days! Open year-round, but may be closed for short periods in winter.
extremeRoad trip guide: Conquering La Rinconada de Nigüelas
🇪🇸 Spain
# La Rinconada de Nigüelas: A Mountain Pass Adventure If you're craving an adrenaline rush in the heart of Andalusia, the La Rinconada de Nigüelas pass is calling your name. Perched at 2,174m (7,132ft) in Granada's stunning Sierra Nevada National Park, this isn't your typical Sunday drive. Starting from the charming village of Nigüelas, you'll tackle a rugged 16km (9.94 miles) of completely unpaved terrain that'll test your driving skills—and your nerve. The road is a thrilling maze of narrow stretches, steep climbs, and seemingly endless curves. We're talking 27 hairpin turns that'll keep you gripping the wheel and your passengers gripping their seats. This is raw, unfiltered mountain driving. The landscape is absolutely breathtaking, but don't underestimate the challenge. Winter conditions make the pass practically impassable, so timing is everything. Summer and early fall are your best bet for attempting this beast. Ready to conquer it? Just remember: this isn't for the faint of heart or the casual driver. But if you're up for the challenge, the views and the bragging rights are absolutely worth it.
moderateAn awe-inspiring road to Mont Revard in Savoie
🇫🇷 France
# Mont Revard: Alpine Beauty in the French Alps Perched at 1,562m (5,125ft) in the Savoie department, Mont Revard is a mountain pass that'll take your breath away—literally. Tucked near the charming town of Aix-les-Bains, just east of Lac du Bourget in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this spot is southeastern France at its finest. The famous D913 (Route du Revard) is the star of the show here. This 27km beauty runs from Drumettaz-Clarafond to Les Déserts, and let me tell you, it's a love letter written in asphalt. Completely paved and gloriously curvy, the road winds its way through over 20 kilometres of climbing that rarely gets brutal—just persistent and rewarding. Every turn serves up stunning mountain vistas that'll make you want to pull over constantly (and honestly, you should). The Le Revard ski resort sits on the northern edge of the pass, adding to the year-round appeal. And if you're a cycling fan, you'll be treading in legendary footsteps here—this pass has featured in the Tour de France multiple times, with professional cyclists grinding through these same twists and turns. Whether you're chasing epic scenery, testing your driving skills on pristine mountain roads, or just soaking in the Alpine atmosphere, Mont Revard delivers on all fronts. Best part? It's open year-round, so there's always an excuse to make the drive.