Col de Portet is one of the toughest climbs in the Pyrenees. It shares the first half of its slopes with the challenging Pla d'Adet, but where Pla d'Adet starts to ease off in terms of gradients, the road splits and the brave turn right towards the Col de Portet.
The Col de Portet made its Tour de France debut in 2018, during the shortest stage of the race (just 65km). It instantly became a hit, with Nairo Quintana winning on the day, and with the steep slopes and delightful hairpin bends proving very popular with fans. Col de Portet shares a mountain with Col du Tourmalet and, with time, it may even rival its famous sibling's title as the hardest and best climb in the Pyrenees.
The scenery is beautiful throughout the climb, particularly on the upper slopes when you get above the trees and are afforded wonderful views of the high mountains in all directions.
Col de Portet is open as far as the Pla d'Adet turn off throughout the year. The final 9km are usually open from June to October.
The last 8km of the climb offer stunning views back down the valley
Roads & Traffic
Since it was used in the 2018 Tour de France the road has been fully paved. It is in very good condition throughout.
There is little traffic and cars are even banned from driving on the second half of the climb during most of the day.
Kilometre markers tell you what is coming up next!
Alternative Routes
This is the only way to climb to Col de Portet (at least on a road bike!)
France
Spain