Route Du Pas de la Confession is a balcony road in the French Alps
Pas de la Confession (the Confession Pass) is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1,541m (5,055ft) above sea level, located in the Isère department of France. The pass earned its name because the route was so risky that travelers were encouraged to confess their sins before attempting it. It is one of the most famous French balcony roads.
Where is Pas de la Confession?
The pass is located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, in the southeastern part of France.
Why is it called Pas de la Confession?
With its sheer, exposed crossings, the road was considered so dangerous that travelers leaving Huez for Villard-Reculas were strongly advised to go to confession beforehand. On the Huez side, an oratory allowed travelers to perform the ritual before entering the pass.
Is Pas de la Confession paved?
The road through the pass is fully paved, yet extremely challenging. It is called D211B (Route Du Pas de la Confession). The road is narrow and runs very high above the valley below. Carved into the mountainside, it is also known as Routes du Vertige.
Vehicles towing caravans or trucks are prohibited, and the road has a high risk of rock slides. This iconic balcony road demonstrates how dangerous one small mistake can be, as it soars dramatically above the valley on the cliff wall.
Is Pas de la Confession worth the drive?
The road offers breathtaking scenery, though navigating it requires full attention, leaving little time to enjoy the views. There are a few viewpoints along the route to appreciate the impressive surroundings. Perched high above the Romanche Valley, the vistas are truly mesmerising.
How long is Pas de la Confession?
Set high in the French Alps, the cliff road is 3.5 km (2.17 miles) long, running east-northwest from Huez to Villard-Reculas. Until 1980, this was the only road serving Villard-Reculas, after which the town was connected to Allemont by a new route.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez