28.1
PDI
9.1 mi
DISTANCE
3,954 ft
GAINED
8.1 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
Page Contributor(s): Carl Hansen, Guernsey, UK
INTRO
This is one of the hardest climbs in the French Pyrenees, with consistently challenging gradients until a plateau after 10 kilometers. Much of this climb feels very remote without much in the way of road signs or other information.
Depending on where you are based for this climb, you can also try some of the other climbs in the area such as the Col de la Pierre St Martin and the Col de Marie Blanque. You can also do some international loop rides by continuing on through Spain and returning over another climb.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
We've partnered with Sherpa-Map.com to bring you the best route planning tool. With a PRO Membership you can use this climb as a reference when creating your route. See more details and tools regarding this climb's grade via our interactive Profile Tool.
Roadway: The roadway is in good shape up to Larrau. The road is not as well maintained as you get closer to the top. As with many climbs in the Pyrenees, watch for free range farm animals on and around the roadway.
Traffic: There is very little traffic after Larrau.
Parking: You can park at the bottom of the climb. It is also possible to ride to the base of the climb from Aramits, Arette, and other villages.
Summer in the Pyrenees is normally warm and sunny, even at higher elevations. However, there are some periods of low clouds that can make the climbs quite damp. Bring warm clothes just in case. There is water available in Larrau. There are no services at the top, so take food and water with you.
Before heading out on any cycling adventure check out our Things to Bring on a Cycling Trip and use our interactive check list to ensure you don't forget anything.
There are places to stay in Arette, Aramits, and some of the smaller villages in the area. Arette and Aramits also have restaurants and shops for food. Be sure to sample the delightful Basque cuisine when you are in this area.
ROUTE MAP
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carlinguernsey
This is one of the hardest climbs in the Pyrenees. If not for the plateau after about 10 k, it might be the hardest. It is very remote and you will likely see many more animals than humans. I think I saw only one or two cars after Larrau the day that I climbed it.
