Col du Portalet

This cycle route of the Col du Portalet climb will take you right up to the border of France and Spain. While not as famous as some of the neighboring cols this is a fantastic ride and definitely recommended. The views as you climb ever higher are sensational. Be aware in Summer the heat can be quite blistering and there is little in the way of shade the closer you get to the summit.

Follow the river

The official start of the Col du Portalet climb begins at Pont Lauguere just out of Laruns. From here the road winds its way up the valley following the Gave d’Ossau. The sound of the flowing river is a constant as you make your way up the climb. It also provides for a spectacular view.

A long climb but never too steep

At 28.5km in length, the climb of the Col du Portalet is certainly lengthy. The average gradient for the whole climb is 4.5% so it really is a climb that allows you to get into a good climbing rhythm without being too steep. There are distinct markers for you to pace yourself on the climb such as Artouste – a ski resort that you reach at the halfway point. Lac Fabregas a little further on the climb brings with it a couple of kilometers which are almost flat. From there the climb gradually gets steeper with gradients hovering around 7% for the remainder.

Summit

At the summit, you will see the remains of the old border post between France and Spain. The Grand Pic du Midi d’Ossau – the highest peak of this range is in full view and depending on the time of year you are riding it may be covered in a blanket of snow. The hôtel du Portalet also provides you with options for food and drink.

Suggested cycling route

Food and water

There are a few options along this route to replenish food and water. As mentioned earlier the climb is exposed so if taking this on during summer make sure to take two bidons of fluids with you. Resupply points are:

• Laruns – at the start of the climb
• The ski resort of Artouste
• Col du Portalet Summit

Highlights

* Enjoy the lower part of this climb as the road follows the river.

* Spectacular views open up as you climb out of the forested lower slopes and are greeted with wide open views of the lofty peaks of the Ossau range.

Climb statistics and gradient profile