Gorges du Terme Inférieur, a stunning balcony road

Gorges du Terme Inférieur is the name of a very challenging canyon located in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of the region of Occitanie, in Southern France. It’s one of the most scenic French balcony roads.

Gorges du Terme Inférieur

Tucked away in the Pyrénées mountain range, the road through the gorges is totally paved running along a narrow canyon carved by the Mondony river. It’s called D53 and D53B. The road has very narrow parts, so proceed cautiously and hope no other vehicles come from the other direction. Not recommended if you don't know how to reverse.  It’s a road to die for (or die on, if you're not careful!). The drive is very scenic, with stunning views of forests.

Nestled in a valley completely surrounded by mountains and forests, the staggering road is 6km (3.72 miles) long starting at Amélie-les-Bains-Palalda. Vehicles towing a caravan and trucks are forbidden. This road raises everyone’s heartbeat. High risk of rockfalls. The road is steep, hitting a 13% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps.

This road is one of the most famous balcony roads in the country. A balcony road is a hair-raising lane cut into the sides of sheer cliffs. It’s a kind of road not for those who fear heights. There is little room for error on these roads. When you take this road as picturesque as it is narrow, with its many surprising meanders, drive carefully, and above all don't miss the parking spaces that have been provided.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez

 

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