Since 2018, Col de Portet has joined the very exclusive circle of the Pyrenees’ most feared hors catégorie climbs, on a road that had never before been used in racing.
A new ascent already turned cult classic
From Saint-Lary-Soulan, the road climbs 16 km for around 1,420 m of elevation gain, averaging 8.7%, up to 2,215 m of altitude. With virtually no flat stretch along the way, the ascent strings together sustained ramps through alpine pastures and tight hairpins, in the mineral scenery typical of the high Pyrenean valleys.
A road paved for the Tour de France
For decades a simple pastoral track serving summer pastures, the upper section of Col de Portet was only paved ahead of its entry into the Tour de France calendar. On 25 July 2018, during stage 17, a short 65 km stage from Bagnères-de-Luchon, the race delivered one of its most explosive finishes of recent years: Colombia’s Nairo Quintana won atop an ascent immediately regarded as one of the hardest the peloton had ever climbed.
Getting the ride right
A compact or triple crankset is essential to hold a steady rhythm over 16 km with no let-up. Insulated bottles are not a luxury here: at this altitude, conditions can turn quickly, even in the height of summer.
When to go
June to September, as snow can linger on the upper slopes until late spring. Summer remains the safest window to enjoy a clear road and open views over the neighbouring peaks.
Good to know
Saint-Lary-Soulan, a lively resort in both summer and winter, gives convenient access to other major climbs in the area such as Col de Peyresourde or Col d’Aspin, both already well known to Tour de France regulars.
