A Guide to Cycling the Col de Portel & the Mur de Péguère
This challenging route tackles the two approaches of the Col de Portel in the Ariège region of the Pyrenees. The Tour de France first featured this climb in the 2008 edition of the race. The second approach of this ascent from Massat also takes in the difficult slopes of the Mur de Péguère which has gradients of over 18%.
Climb Statistics and gradient profile
Col de Portel (Eastern approach)
Length: 29.8km / 18.5mi
Average gradient: 3.5%
Start point: 391m / 1,283ft
Elevation at top: 1440m / 4,724
Category: 1
Nearest town: La Bastide-de-Sérou
Facilities at top: None
When to ride: May to Oct
Road condition: Asphalt – Good
Nearest climb:
Number of approaches: 6
Route Variations
Col d’Agnes
The first section of the Col d’Agnes is on the Port des Lers climb. From this approach, it is a scenic climb with numerous switchbacks leading to the summit at 1570m. Discover more about the climb here.
Discover more about cycling in the Ariège region
If you are not familiar with the Pyrenees, our comprehensive guide will help you plan everything you need for your cycling holiday. The guide includes information such as:
- a map of the Pyrenees with climbs and towns marked
- where to base yourself depending on which mountains you would like to ride
- cycling hotels and lodges
- bike hire outlets
- getting to and from the Pyrenees
- non-cycling attractions and activities in the region