The South of France has been a popular tourist destination in Europe for a long time and for good reason. With fantastic views and beautiful weather, along with fast, zooming mountain roads – it is an ideal place that provides the perfect setting for a road trip.
Check out these four fantastic roads worth visiting in the South of France.
Col de la Bonnette
One of the most incredible roads in Southern France is Col de la Bonnette, which is also the highest road in all of Europe. The route offers drivers a unique setting as the steady climb up from sea level will show a drastic change in scenery. It is also well maintained, meaning the perfect ribbon of tarmac offers a thrilling, but smooth driving experience.
Where is the Col de la Bonnette? Located near the border with Italy within the Mercantour National Park
When is the Col de la Bonnette open? From July to October (Depending on weather conditions)
How high is the Col de la Bonnette? 2,715m above sea level
Gorges du Verdon
Nicknamed the ‘Grand canyon du Verdon’, this breath-taking balcony road in southeastern France is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
With blind curves and hairpin turns, this road offers a hair-raising drive that takes a strong stomach to complete. The spectacular scenery offers countless photo opportunities but try not to take your attention away from the 2,300ft drop that stands over the other side of the guard rails.
This drive is not for the faint hearted, but is undoubtedly worth every moment and will certainly impress anyone who decides to take it on.
Where is the Gorges du Verdon? Located in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
When is the Gorges du Verdon open? It is open all year round but may get closed temporarily in the Winter months due to snow
How high is the Gorges du Verdon? Reaches 700m in elevation
Gorges du Hourat (D934)
Named the D934, this is another balcony road – meaning it looks like a balcony with a sheer drop on one side – that offers scenic views and tight canyon turns.
Located in the southwestern corner of France, close to the Spanish border, this fantastic valley road features unlit tunnels and narrow sections cut into the side of the cliffs that will make a brilliant inclusion in any road trip.
Where is the Gorges du Hourat? Located in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department, in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine
When is the Gorges du Hourat open? Open all year round
Route d’Espagne (D914)
The D914 or Route d’Espagne is an almost 20 km winding coastal road that includes sharp curves and hairpin switchbacks. The gorgeous but challenging road in the South West of France is perfect for a picturesque drive on the coast and offers a far better setting than the highway.
Where is the Route d’Espagne? Links Port-Vendres and the Spanish border
When is the Route d’Espagne open? The road can be closed at any point due to extreme coastal winds
