How to drive the scenic balcony road through Gorges de l'Aude in Occitania?
Gorges de l'Aude is a very scenic yet narrow canyon, located in the Aude department of France. It’s one of the famous French balcony roads.
Where is Gorges de l'Aude?
The gorges, carved by the River Aude, are located to the south of Quillan, in the Occitania region, in the southern part of the country.
Is the road through Gorges de l'Aude paved?
The road through the gorges is the challenging D118. It’s totally paved but features narrow parts. The road presents a high risk of rock slides. It can be very challenging if you are driving, with many sections too narrow for cars to pass and a strong chance you will need to reverse around a blind corner on a narrow road.
How long is the road through Gorges de l'Aude?
The road through the gorges is 20.0 km (12 miles) long, running south-north from Notre-Dame d'Escouloubre to the junction with D117 Road, near Gorges de Saint-Georges.
Is Gorges de l'Aude worth the drive?
The canyon was carved over time by the River Aude, hurtling down the slopes of the Pyrenees. Walking and cycling are recommended because the narrow roads will require much of your attention, and you will see less of the scenery from the car window. Spectacular sheer rock faces greet you around every bend. The road is carved into the mountainside. The gorge is an example of how the erosion of the water has gradually produced a slow and beautiful work, carving the white limestone deeply, without aggressivity.
It’s challenging and dangerous to drive and admire the scenery at the same time. If you want to take a better look at the gorge landscape, it’s recommended to stop. Make sure you leave enough time to make plenty of stops along the way.
Pic: Suwannee Payne