Winding road of Julier Pass, Switzerland
© Westend61/Getty Image
The climb is calling. Winding road of Julier Pass, Switzerland
Some mountain roads become destinations in their own right, and Julier Pass is one of them. Rising to 2,284 metres, this Swiss mountain pass has linked Alpine valleys for nearly 2,000 years. Long before modern traffic, Roman travellers, merchants and messengers crossed its summit. Archaeological discoveries, including hundreds of Roman coins and the remains of two stone columns, suggest there was once a sanctuary or resting place for those making the climb. The summit also marks the major European watershed dividing the Rhine and Danube river basins.
The road seen in today's image was built between 1820 and 1828. Between 1935 and 1940, Julier Pass became the first Swiss alpine pass road to be paved with asphalt. Unlike many high mountain routes, it remains open throughout the year, although snow chains may be needed in severe winter conditions. Every switchback reveals another spectacular view, making the journey every bit as memorable as the destination.
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