The French Pyrenees are home to some of the most dramatic and beautiful climbs in the world. From challenging dead-end ascents to legendary Tour de France routes, the Pyrenees offer a wide range of cycling experiences that will push your endurance and reward you with stunning vistas. In this blog, we highlight the top cycling climbs in the French Pyrenees that every cyclist should explore.
What Are the Best Cycling Climbs in the French Pyrenees?
The best cycling climbs in the French Pyrenees are known for their diverse landscapes, challenging gradients, and unique features. Some of the top climbs include:
- Cirque de Troumouse: A stunning climb popular with hikers, offering incredible alpine views.
- Col des Tentes: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this dead-end climb is as scenic as it is challenging.
- Port de Pailhères: A classic Pyrenean climb known for its steep gradients and sweeping views.
- Lac d’Aubert: A beautiful double-col climb when combined with Lac de Cap-de-Long.
- Col du Tourmalet: The most iconic Tour de France climb in the Pyrenees, renowned for its steep ascent and legendary status.
Cirque de Troumouse
Cirque de Troumouse is one of the most breathtaking climbs in the Pyrenees, popular with both cyclists and hikers. The climb takes you through an awe-inspiring amphitheater of towering cliffs and lush meadows, eventually reaching an altitude of 2,108 meters. It’s a relatively peaceful climb, offering a sense of tranquility as you ascend through this incredible landscape. Cirque de Troumouse is a must-ride for anyone seeking a beautiful and rewarding climb in the Pyrenees. Learn more here.
Col des Tentes
Col des Tentes is a hidden gem in the French Pyrenees, located within a UNESCO World Heritage site. This dead-end climb takes you up to 2,208 meters, offering some of the most stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The climb is long and steady, making it a true test of endurance, but the reward at the top is well worth the effort. The remote beauty of Col des Tentes makes it a favorite among cyclists who appreciate scenic solitude. Explore more here.
Port de Pailhères
Port de Pailhères is a classic Pyrenean climb, known for its challenging gradients and sweeping alpine views. At 2,001 meters, this climb features steep sections that will test even the most experienced riders. The ascent is rewarded with spectacular scenery, making it a popular choice for cyclists who are looking for a tough but rewarding ride. Port de Pailhères has also been featured in the Tour de France, adding to its prestige. Find out more.
Lac d’Aubert
Lac d’Aubert offers a unique climbing experience with the opportunity to tackle a double-col when combined with the neighboring Lac de Cap-de-Long. The climb takes you through beautiful alpine landscapes, eventually reaching the serene Lac d’Aubert at 2,149 meters. The peaceful surroundings and challenging gradients make this a standout climb in the Pyrenees, perfect for cyclists looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. Discover more here.
Col du Tourmalet
Col du Tourmalet is the most famous climb in the French Pyrenees and a legendary ascent in the Tour de France. Reaching an altitude of 2,115 meters, the climb is known for its steep gradients and long, grueling ascent. Cyclists from around the world come to test themselves on this iconic route, which has been a key stage in the Tour de France for decades. The sense of achievement upon reaching the summit of Col du Tourmalet is immense, and the views are nothing short of spectacular. Learn more here.
Conclusion
The French Pyrenees offer some of the most diverse and challenging cycling climbs in the world, from peaceful dead-end roads like Col des Tentes to legendary Tour de France routes like Col du Tourmalet. Whether you’re seeking scenic solitude or an iconic climb, the Pyrenees have something for every cyclist. To explore more high-altitude climbs, visit Deux Mille for a complete overview of 2,000-meter cols in the French Pyrenees.
