Calle Monroy is one of the steepest streets in the world
Located in Tenerife, on the Canary Islands of Spain, Calle Monroy is one of the steepest streets in the world with an average gradient of 28.1%.
In Santa Úrsula, a town on the north coast of Tenerife, on the Canary Islands, the street descends from 638 to 430 meters over a distance of 740 meters. The entire street maintains an average gradient of 28.1%. This paved street stands out as one of the steepest continuous grade sealed streets with public access, featuring a maximum gradient of 40%. The upper section of the street is so steep that concrete is used for surfacing, opting for durability over traditional bitumen or tarmac. Grooves casted into the concrete in a chevron pattern enhance the traction for vehicles navigating this remarkable slope.
Despite its engineering marvel, the street offers an adrenaline-pumping journey, not suitable for the faint of lungs, heart, or legs. Calle Monroy lacks any flat sections, and its last part is notably narrow. Climbing this remarkable street is often deemed beyond the capability of many, considering both its challenging nature and potential danger. The road poses a risk, particularly if an attempt fails, leading to a backward slide down the steep slope. Stopping on this incline, even with good brakes, proves quite difficult. On the opposite side of the road, a small shrine stands as a poignant reminder of someone who lost their life here. Consequently, many tourists choose to approach Calle Monroy from the top, descending the entire length of the street instead.