Why is it called Commerson Crater?
France, europe
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hard
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to Réunion Island? Awesome! You absolutely HAVE to check out Cratère Commerson. This volcanic crater sits way up high – think serious altitude – on the island's volcanic slopes.
The road to get there, Route Forestière 5 du Volcan (also known as Volcano Road, fittingly!), is a real adventure. It’s unpaved, and a pretty steep climb that ends at Col des Ves, a mountain pass. The whole stretch is roughly a good few miles of winding road.
Word to the wise: the sun up there can be intense, so sunscreen is your best friend. But hey, this is a volcanic landscape! Be prepared for the weather to change on a dime. Rain is common, especially during storms, and fog can roll in fast, so keep an eye on the forecast, and pack accordingly.
Related Roads in europe
hardRoc del Quer
🌍 Andorra
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Andorra, near the French border, in the parish of Canillo. You're heading towards Roc del Quer (aka Cap del Quer), and let me tell you, the views are going to blow your mind. This high mountain pass climbs to 1,956m (6,417ft) and the road there, the CS-240 (Carretera de Montaup), is a wild ride. It's all twists, turns, and steep inclines as you connect the villages of Canillo and Ordino. The average gradient is around 6.56%, so get ready for some gear-shifting action! The road is generally open year-round, but be aware that winter weather can sometimes cause temporary closures. Once you reach the top, you'll find a small parking area and a walkway opened in 2016 – get ready for some serious thrills! The walkway is 20 meters long, with 12 of those meters made of transparent glass, suspended a whopping 500 meters above the ground. If you're starting from Canillo, it's a 6.5 km climb with an elevation gain of 427 meters. Trust me, the panoramic views from the top are SO worth the adrenaline rush.
extremeYedigöller
🇹🇷 Turkey
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're craving an off-the-beaten-path experience in Turkey, Yedigöller (Seven Lakes) in Erzurum Province is calling your name. We're talking Eastern Anatolia, way up high at 3,173 meters (that's 10,410 feet!). This is one of Turkey's highest drives, and trust me, it's an unforgettable one. The road? Well, let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Think gravel, rocks, and a whole lot of bumpiness. You'll need a 4x4 for this adventure! Expect steep inclines and some hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills. Keep your eyes peeled – there are some serious drop-offs along the way! July and August are the sweet spots for a visit. Even then, pack warm layers – it's always cold and windy up there. Oh, and one more thing: the air is thin! Your engine might feel it, and so might you. This rugged road leads to Tahir Gediği and winds through Aladaglar National Park. Get ready for some seriously stunning scenery!
moderateNassfeld Pass is a classic road trip in the Carnic Alps
🇦🇹 Austria
# Nassfeld Pass-Passo di Pramollo Nestled in the stunning Carnic Alps, Nassfeld Pass sits pretty at 1,534 meters (5,032 feet) and marks the border between Austria and Italy. This scenic route connects Austria's Carinthia region with Italy's Friuli-Venezia Giulia, following a path that medieval traders once used to move goods between the Duchy of Carinthia and Venice. The full pass stretches 24.2 km (15.03 miles) running north to south, connecting the Austrian town of Tröpolach with the Italian town of Pontebba. **The Italian Side** Coming up from Pontebba, you'll tackle the SP110—a fully paved road that climbs 13.4 km with 969 meters of elevation gain. The average grade sits at a manageable 7.2%, making it a bit more forgiving if you're building up to the top. **The Austrian Side** The Austrian approach via the B90 is equally paved but a touch steeper. From Tröpolach, it's 11.6 km up with 940 meters of elevation gain—averaging 8.1% gradient. Things get real spicy in a few sections though, with some ramps hitting a gnarly 14% grade that'll definitely get your heart pumping. Either direction offers a rewarding Alpine experience with breathtaking mountain scenery. Just pick your preferred climbing style and enjoy the ride!
hardWhere is Estany de les Abelletes?
🌍 Andorra
Alright, picture this: you're straddling the French-Andorran border, high up in the Pyrenees at the breathtaking Estany de les Abelletes (or Lac des Abelletes, if you're feeling French). This lake is nestled way up high. This isn't just a scenic drive; it's a proper adventure! The lake straddles the border between France (Occitania region) and Andorra (Encamp parish). The Pas de la Casa River flows from here, eventually feeding into the Garonne. This river also marks the border so you're literally seeing two countries at once. The road to get there is definitely an experience. A high-clearance vehicle is practically mandatory. Starting from a parking area where the public road ends, it's a steep, rocky climb. Keep in mind that the final section, especially the ascent to Coll Blanc, is seriously hardcore. Once you get there, you'll be rewarded with stunning scenery and maybe even a glimpse of some local wildlife. Keep an eye out for that mountain wind, though – it can get fierce!