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COL DU TOURMALET
The Col du Tourmalet, with an altitude of 2,115 meters above sea level, is the second highest “col” in the Pyrenees among those entirely located in French territory. Known for being one of the most famous and demanding stages of the Tour de France, the Tourmalet is a riot of curves constantly accompanied by the spectacular view over the entire valley below. As you move away from Campan and head towards the summit, the pass is able to surprise and satisfy with a wide road surface mainly in good condition, with the positive factor of being generally open from June to December, therefore at least a handful of months more than the most of the other mountain passes. The opposite side is equally epic and promises intense thrills throughout its whole descent.
Location: Luz-Saint-Sauveur – Campan
Type: mountain road
Length: 19 km
Elevation: 2.115 m
If we had to choose a single adjective to describe the Col du Tourmalet it would be majestic and this because at any point you decide to stop to enjoy some pure air, admire the tiny asphalt serpentine traveled just before or try to see the top, everything will be an integral part of the driving experience on this jewel of the Pyrenees. At the top, just over two thousand meters, there is a bar/restaurant, several parking areas and ski lifts for the winter season. As in the case of the Col d’Aubisque, this is undoubtedly a destination that should not be missing from the road trip journal of a self-respecting climber.
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