Welcome to climbing paradise. Whether you're looking for legendary climbs or wild gems, here are the must-do ascents in our region.
1. The Col du Tourmalet (2,115 m)
The giant of the Pyrenees. It's the most frequently used pass in the Tour de France. A long, demanding climb, but absolutely essential for any cyclist.
Distance: 18 km (from Luz-Saint-Sauveur)
Elevation gain: 1,404 m
Average gradient: 7.7% (sections at 10-12% towards the end)
2. Hautacam (1,520 m)
A climb of exceptional difficulty, famous for its irregular slopes that never give up. The view from the summit over the Argelès valley is breathtaking.
Distance: 13.5 km
Elevation gain: 1,070 m
Average slope: 8% (max 13%)
3. The Col d'Aubisque (1,709 m)
Passing through the Soulor pass, this road suspended in the Cirque du Litor is undoubtedly the most beautiful in Europe. A wild, picture-postcard setting.
Distance: 30 km (via Soulor)
Elevation gain: 1,247 m
Average gradient: 4.2% (but the last 10 km are tough)
4. The Col du Soulor (1,474 m)
A steady and magnificent climb through the pastures. It's the necessary route to reach the Aubisque, but it's a reward in itself.
Distance: 20 km
Elevation gain: 1,014 m
Average gradient: 5% (final at 8%)
5. Luz Ardiden (1,720 m)
Less well-known than the Tourmalet, this climb is an engineering masterpiece with its numerous tight switchbacks. A pure joy to ride both uphill and downhill.
Distance: 13 km (from Luz)
Elevation gain: 1,015 m
Average slope: 7.8%
6. The Cirque de Troumouse (2,100 m)
Higher than the Tourmalet (or almost), this road plunges into the National Park. It's a wild climb, far from cars, in the heart of a vast natural amphitheater.
Distance: 28 km (from Luz)
Elevation gain: 1,390 m
Average gradient: 5% (very steep final section)
7. Gavarnie / Port de Boucharo (2,270 m)
After passing through the village of Gavarnie, the road continues towards the peaks. You cycle facing the Brèche de Roland. Magnificent.
Distance: 31 km
Elevation gain: 1,560 m
Average slope: 5%
8. Pont d'Espagne (1,496 m)
Starting from Cauterets, this climb takes you alongside rushing waterfalls. The final stretch is challenging, but the visual reward is immediate.
Distance: 16 km (from Pierrefitte-Nestalas)
Elevation gain: 1,000 m
Average slope: 6.3%
9. The Couraduque Pass (1,367 m)
Located in the Val d'Azun, this pass is popular with locals. A short but intense climb with a 360° panoramic view of the surrounding peaks at the summit.
Distance: 6.5 km (from None)
Elevation gain: 510 m
Average slope: 7.8%
10. The Spandelles Pass (1,378 m)
Long a forest road, it is now paved for the Tour de France. Wild, narrow and very steep, it's a challenge for those in the know.
Distance: 15.5 km
Elevation gain: 930 m
Average gradient: 6% (but some ramps reach 12%)