Ahuski - Alcay (Pyrenees)

Climb Description

Ahuski (also known as Ahusquy in French), is a climb to a small hamlet situated high in the Basque Pyrenees. The scenery on a clear day (which admittedly are few and far between) is very picturesque, with the vibrant green hills defining a remarkable landscape. There are several other cols just a short distance from the top, including the Col Ibarburia, the Col Inharpu and the Col Burdin Olatze.

All of these, however, are essentially the same climb as Ahuski. As the names suggest, this is a very Basque part of France, which lends it a unique and charming character. The climb is also home to many farm animals; it is usual to see sheep, goats, cows and horses all roaming the slopes as you struggle up the climb!

Ahuski is open throughout the year, although short term closures are common in the winter. The climb is also commonly covered in fog throughout the year - particularly on the upper stretches. Great care must be taken here as the road is narrow and with some steep drops on one side.




Ahuski from Alcay is significantly more challenging than the average gradient suggests. There are long sections above 10% in the lower half of the climb, before it eases considerably after the Col de Arangaitz which you reach half way through the climb.

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Roads & Traffic

The road surface is in good condition throughout most of the climb, although it is narrow and is commonly covered in excrement from farm animals. The last kilometre from the Alberge Ahusquy is covered in gravel and is difficult to find traction at times.

There is very little traffic on the climb.

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Alternative Routes