Col du Pourtalet (Laruns)

Start Town	Altitude	Elevation Gain	Length	Gradient	Difficulty	Rating
Laruns	1,794m	1,279m	28.7 km	4.5%	571	***

Climb Description

The Pourtalet is not one of the best known climbs in the French Pyrenees - largely because the Tour de France has only been here once; however, the Spanish side is considerably more celebrated, having made numerous appearances in the Vuelta a España. The Pourtalet is also climbed each year in the famous Quebrantahuesos Gran Fondo.

The road is largely surrounded by forest on the lower slopes, but the second half of the climb is really spectacular, with stunning views of the rocky peaks of the Pyrenees. The road follows a picturesque stream for much of the climb.

The Pourtalet is open as far as the ski station at Lac de Frabreges throughout the year. The pass itself is often closed during winter; although not always - it really depends on the local weather.

Roads & Traffic

The road is in very good condition throughout.

There is some traffic on the climb, and it can get quite busy with cars at weekends and in the middle of summer. Generally it is not too bad though and, is certainly less busy than the neighbouring Col de Somport.

Alternative Routes

The Pourtalet can also be climbed from the Spanish side, starting in Biescas

Nearby Climbs

Col d'Aubisque

Col de Marie Blanque

Col de Somport

Col de la Pierre St Martin

Cotefablo

Somport

Cycling Holidays

We currently do not have any holidays which include the Col du Pourtalet.

However, our Pyrenees Coast to Coast and Best of the Pyrenees tours both go nearby; passing through the town of Laruns on the way to the Col d'Aubisque.

Check out the information below for details of these and some of the other tours that we run in high mountains.