Driving the Exciting ER338 Road in Serra da Estrela
Nestled in the Guarda district of Portugal, high within the Serra da Estrela mountain range in the central part of the country, lies the stunning ER338 Road. This fully paved route, stretching for 28.1 km (17.46 miles) from Col de Zezere to Manteigas, offers a very exciting drive with truly great views. However, it's important to note that this scenic passage can be closed at any time due to security concerns.
Where is ER338 Road Located?
Tucked away in the central part of Portugal, the ER338 Road is situated high in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, specifically within the Guarda district. The route runs south-north, connecting Col de Zezere and Manteigas.
Is ER338 Road Paved?
Yes, the ER338 Road is fully paved along its entire 28.1-kilometer length.
How Long is ER338 Road?
The scenic ER338 Road spans a distance of 28.1 kilometers (17.46 miles) as it travels between Col de Zezere and Manteigas.
Why Might ER338 Road Be Closed?
The ER338 Road is often closed for security reasons, primarily due to the risk of rockfalls. This is a common occurrence, especially after strong storms and fires, as the mountains in the area are considered weak and prone to movement over time. Additionally, the road can be closed anytime during the winter months due to significant snowfall.
What Warnings Are Present Along ER338 Road?
Drivers along ER338 Road will encounter a few red traffic signals displaying important warnings. These include instructions to "Try your brakes now" and "Keep low gears," highlighting the steepness of the road.
How Steep is ER338 Road?
The ER338 Road features very steep sections, with maximum gradients reaching up to 10% in certain areas. Keeping low gears is therefore highly recommended for drivers navigating this route.
What Makes the Views Along ER338 Road Amazing?
The drive along ER338 Road is simply amazing for the views it offers. There are many viewpoints and lookouts along the way, providing stunning perspectives of the landscape. Furthermore, the road runs along the slope of the former Zêzere glacier valley, which is considered one of the best examples of landscape shaping by glaciers in the region.
What is Notable About the Zêzere Glacier Valley?
The Zêzere glacier valley, along which ER338 Road travels, is the largest of the Estrela glacial valleys, extending in a straight line for about eight kilometers. It exhibits a U-shaped cross-section, typical of glacial landforms, formed by the action of ice during the last glacial phase. At its peak during the last Ice Age, the Zêzere Glacier is estimated to have reached a length of 13 kilometers and a thickness of 300 meters.
Is ER338 Road Suitable for Heavy Vehicles?
No, the ER338 Road is not recommended for heavy vehicles. In the middle section, the road becomes very narrow, with parts reduced to a single lane due to the ongoing risk of rockfalls.
Should You Check Road Conditions Before Driving ER338 Road?
Yes, it is highly recommended to check if the ER338 Road is open before you begin your journey. Due to the potential for closures caused by rockfalls after strong storms and fires, as well as winter snowfalls, knowing the current road conditions is crucial for a safe trip.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez