With the convertible from curve to curve

Anyone who loves driving knows the feeling: a winding road, the roof down, the engine purring – and in front of you lies a series of twists and turns that not only challenge driving dynamics but also captivate the eye. Europe’s mountains and coastal landscapes offer some of the most fascinating winding roads in the world – spectacular routes that climb steep hills or wind along the coast. Perfect for anyone seeking a combination of scenery, technology, and driving pleasure. Here come the most impressive winding roads in Europe – ideal for your next convertible road trip.

Alpine Passes for the Demanding

The Alps are a true paradise for convertible drivers who love the twisty carousel. In Austria, the Timmelsjoch ranks among the absolute classics. The high alpine road connects the Ötztal with South Tyrol and offers a interplay of tight corners, grand views, and alpine exhilaration. No less impressive is the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, which winds over 48 kilometers through 36 turns – always with the highest mountain in Austria in sight.

In Switzerland, the Grimsel Pass lures with its almost surreal road layout between rock and glacier landscape. For those wanting more, combine it with the Furka Pass and the Susten Pass – a trio combination for true lovers of mountain roads. This pass round leads through high mountains, past waterfalls, lakes, and spectacular panoramas – providing a driving experience of the highest caliber. Especially in early summer, when snow still lies in higher elevations, these routes are a visual and driving highlight.

Italy: Stelvio Pass and Amalfi Drive

Few winding roads are as legendary as the Stelvio Pass in Northern Italy. With 48 numbered turns, it is not only a visual highlight but also a driving challenge. The view of the Ortler massif rewards anyone who has made the climb. Looking south, one discovers a completely different world: the Amalfitana. Between Positano and Vietri sul Mare, this spectacular coastal road stretches along the steep coast – narrow, curvy, but with a view that is addictive. Especially in the early morning or late afternoon, the Amalfitana reveals all its magic – and is then also somewhat less crowded.

France: Cols and Corniches

France also has much to offer for convertible fans. The Col de Turini in the Maritime Alps is not only popular with rally drivers but also delights with its mix of turns, tunnels, and viewpoints. Further west lies the Col du Galibier, Col d'Izoard, or the Col de la Bonette (one of the highest drivable passes in Europe), perfect winding targets that make every driver's heart race.

It becomes even more spectacular on the Côte d’Azur: the “Trois Corniches” between Nice and Menton lead high above the Mediterranean – with views of shimmering bays, elegant villas, and azure waters. The narrow road demands attention but rewards with an incomparable backdrop – especially at sunset.

Spain & Croatia: Curves in the Sun

On the Iberian Peninsula, there are dream routes for curve enthusiasts as well. The Sierra de Tramuntana in Mallorca surprises with narrow, well-paved roads winding through barren mountain landscapes and olive groves. Especially the route from Sa Calobra is legendary: a spectacular hairpin road that leads directly to the sea – with a tunnel that seems almost surreal.

In Croatia, however, winding dream roads await along the Adriatic coast. The Magistrale, which winds for hundreds of kilometers between sea and rock, is one of the most beautiful coastal roads in Europe. Between Rijeka and Dubrovnik, there are countless sections suitable for short or longer tours – always guaranteeing driving fun and sea views. Early in the morning, when the sun slowly rises over the sea, this route is particularly impressive.

Scandinavia & Balkan: Underestimated Curvy Paradises

Anyone who associates Scandinavia only with expansiveness and tranquility misses the driving highlights. The Norwegian Trollstigen is one of the best-known winding roads of the North – spectacularly carved into the rock, with eleven tight turns and several viewpoints. The Atlantic Road also delights with its flowing lines and a play of roads, bridges, and sea. The combination of dramatic nature and modern engineering makes these routes unique.

In the Balkans, adventurers discover true insider tips: the Kotor serpentines in Montenegro, for example – a road with over 25 curves that winds from the Bay of Kotor up to the old mountain fortress. Or the mountain pass road through the Durmitor Mountains – wild, remote, and a true curvy paradise for purists. These routes are often less traveled but are all the more impressive in terms of scenery.

Practical Tips for the Winding Tour

Winding routes require concentration and forward-thinking driving – especially in a convertible, where driving pleasure can quickly be spoiled by overheated brakes or the wrong speed. Good preparation is therefore important: brakes and tires should be in top condition, as should the soft top. Sunglasses, sunblock, and plenty of water should also be in your luggage. Anyone who enjoys photography should always have a cloth ready to cover the steering wheel – it will get hot in the sun quickly.

The best travel time for many of these routes is between May and October, though it can still be cool at higher elevations even in summer. Going against the traffic flow not only avoids congestion but often allows one to experience the winding roads almost alone – ideal for relaxed driving and uninterrupted enjoyment.

Conclusion: Winding Roads – More than Just a Road

For many, winding roads are more than just a part of the journey – they are the destination. The rhythm of braking, steering, accelerating, the constant change of perspective, the play of light and shadow, the closeness to nature – all this makes driving on these roads so special.

Whether Alpine passes, coastal roads, or fjord routes: Europe’s winding roads invite you to a driving experience that appeals to the head, heart, and senses alike. Driving with the top down, taking turns one after the other, and experiencing the world from a new perspective – that is the magic of the most beautiful winding roads in Europe. And with each turn, not only does the joy of driving grow, but also the connection to the landscape and the road.