Col d'Aspin (Pyrenees)

Climb Description

The Col d'Aspin from Campan is quite an easy climb. The first part is very gentle and, although the gradient does kick up in the final 6km, it is still not especially steep.

It is one of the most famous climbs in the Tour de France having been used more than seventy times in the race. It usually acts as a link between larger climbs, such as the Col du Tourmalet and the Col de Peyresourde.

Much of the top part of the climb from Campan is in forest, which makes the views pleasant rather than spectacular; although it does open up at the summit from where you can see the high peaks which form the border between France and Spain. The Col d'Aspin is a legendary climb and really enjoyable to ride; however, if you only have the chance to do one ride in this area, we would recommend the Hourquette d'Ancizan instead - which runs more or less parallel to the Aspin and has more impressive scenery.

Col d'Aspin is usually open throughout the year; although short term closures are possibly in winter if there is heavy snowfall.

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