The Abano Pass in the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia is widely known as the most dangerous road in Europe, featuring 70-foot drops, no guard rails, and waterfalls crashing over the path. It is the only vehicle route connecting the lowlands of the Kakheti region to the isolated mountain region of Tusheti.
The road is approximately 70 kilometres long, but due to extreme conditions, it can take an experienced driver between four to six hours. According to dangerousroads.org, between 10 and 12 people die in crashes every year on this isolated stretch of road.
Hazards and conditions
The steep, winding road is only open to 4x4 vehicles due to its rough and unpredictable surface, tight turns, and precipitous climbs. It is only open during the summer months, from around May to October, depending on weather conditions.
Frequent rainfall and melting snow can trigger rockfalls or landslides that can wipe out the road entirely. Several waterfalls crash across the road, making it often wet and slippery. These waterfalls can hide deep potholes beneath the water, and if the water is heavier than usual, it risks sweeping vehicles sideways off the road and down the sheer cliff face with little warning.
Navigating the pass
The road is incredibly slim, making it terrifying if drivers meet a car coming the other way. According to IsleofNomads, the road can quickly give way and send the car on the outside hurtling into the deep ravine below. Instead, it is safer to carefully reverse until finding a spot to tuck the car off the road and allow the other vehicle to pass.
For those brave enough to traverse it, the Abano Pass boasts some truly jaw-dropping views, but drivers should keep their focus on the road, not the scenery.
