Col du Tourmalet is the most used climb in the Tour de France, having appeared in the vast majority of editions of the race. It is one of the most revered and celebrated climbs in professional cycling and it is rightly at the top of many cyclists to-do list of great ascents.
The climb from Campan is the more challenging and the slightly less scenic of the two sides; although there are still parts of the climb that have outstanding views, particularly towards the top.
The ski resort of La Mongie situated 5km from the top is where Tour de France stage finishes are generally held (due to the limited room at the top), and unfortunately this is something of an eyesore which is a blot on the stunning landscape. To find out more about the climb, read our article about climbing Tourmalet.
Tourmalet is usually the last of the passes to open in the Pyrenees. Some years it can be open by May, whereas in others it does not open until the end of June. Even if there is no sign of snow, the road can be closed for repair work early in the cycling season. In general though, it is normally fine to ride from early June to late October.
Once you pass La Mongie, the scenery is stunning
Roads & Traffic
The road surface is in very good condition throughout.
The climb is not especially busy, but there is slightly more traffic here than on most climbs in the Pyrenees. Expect to be passed by a car every minute or so, but most of these are tourists driving at low speed
and also admiring the views!
The road at the top is narrow and often pretty crowded!
Alternative Routes
Col du Tourmalet can also be climbed from the west, beginning in Luz-Saint-Sauveur.
France
Spain