Where is Col d'Allos?

Okay, picture this: the Col d'Allos, a seriously high mountain pass nestled way up in the French Alps. We're talking 2,250 meters (that's 7,382 feet!) above sea level, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department. You'll find it in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, chilling west of the Parc National du Mercantour.

This pass has some history! Built back in 1891, supposedly to defend against potential Italian and German attacks, so it's got a story to tell.

Now, getting there...the D908 is completely paved, but let's be real, it's not exactly smooth sailing. Think bumpy surfaces, hairpin turns galore, and a road that feels a little narrow at times. Definitely not for the faint of heart, especially with those dramatic drop-offs! Caravan and truck drivers, consider yourselves warned. It's STEEP too – hitting a maximum gradient of 9% in places. It's a Tour de France favorite, so you know it's intense.

The whole pass stretches for about 39.1 km (24.29 miles), connecting Colmars-les-Alpes and Barcelonnette in a south-north direction.

But trust me, it's worth the trek! At the summit, you'll find a parking area and a mountain refuge (Refuge du Col d'Allos). Keep your eyes peeled along the way for marmots, sheep, and cows just living their best lives in the fields.

Heads up: the road is usually closed from October to July due to snow. And if you're planning a visit in July or August, Friday mornings are reserved for cyclists. Oh, and if you're feeling extra adventurous, there's a minor gravel road south of the pass that climbs up to a mountain peak at 2,350m (7,709ft). Get ready for some incredible views!