Tourmalet pass

Visit Tourmalet passlocated in the heart of the French Pyreneesis a veritable monument to cycling, hiking and history. Perched at an altitude of 2,115 metres, it is not only a high point on the Pyrenees route, but also a witness to the history of the Tour de France and the region's key events. In this article, we'll explore the region's history, its links with cycling, hiking opportunities and places to discover in the surrounding area. For visitors from countrythe Col du Tourmalet is a must.

Col du Tourmalet - What is a mountain pass?

A collar is a natural passage between two mountains, often used to cross a mountain range. In the PyreneesThere are many passes through this mountainous region. These high-altitude passes offer spectacular views and are often the scene of sporting challenges such as cycling and hiking. Visit Tourmalet passis one of the most famous because of its altitude and difficulty.

The geographical location of the Col du Tourmalet

Visit Tourmalet pass is in the department in the Hautes-Pyrénées region Occitanie. It lies between the valleys of Campan to the east and Barèges to the west. The pass is accessible via the route départementale 918 and offers exceptional views of the surrounding mountains. In winter, the road is often closed due to snow, but in spring it becomes a favorite destination for cyclists and hikers.

The Col du Tourmalet and French History

Beyond its geographical importance, the Tourmalet pass is also a place steeped in history. Used for centuries for trade and travel, it has seen countless travellers pass through. During the Second World War, the pass even played a role in resistance networks, enabling the passage of information and people between occupied France and Spain.

The Col du Tourmalet and the Tour de France

Visit Tourmalet pass is inseparable from the legend of the Tour de France. This pass was climbed for the first time in 1910 during the Tour, and since then it has become an unmissable classic. In fact, it is the most climbed pass in the history of the race, with over 80 passes to date.

Winners and anecdotes

Among the cyclists who have left their mark on the Tour's history at Tourmalet passinclude legends such as Eddy Merckx or Fausto Coppi. There's a famous anecdote to the effect that, during the first ascent in 1910, an exhausted Octave Lapize described the organizers as "criminals" because of the difficulty of the climb. What's certain is that this pass has become a symbol of courage and determination for cyclists the world over.

Hiking and walking on the Col du Tourmalet

For those wishing to explore the Tourmalet numerous hiking trails hiking to discover this spectacular wilderness. Among the most popular courses are :

• The Pic du Midi de Bigorre hike A route that leads to the Pic du Midi observatory, offering a breathtaking view of the Pyrenees chain.
• The lakes d'Isaby This easy hike takes in the magnificent mountain lakes not far from the pass.
• The GR10 This famous long-distance hiking trail crosses the pass and takes you from one valley to the next.

These walks offer exceptional panoramic views of the Pyrenees and allow you to soak up the wild beauty of this region.

Places to visit around Le Tourmalet

Around the Tourmalet passseveral villages and sites are well worth a visit:

• Barèges The small spa to the west of the pass offers relaxing baths after a day's hiking or cycling.
• La Mongie Famous ski resort in winter, it is the starting point for access to the Pic du Midi by cable car.
• Campan A charming village with a rich heritage, famous for its "mounaques", handmade dolls.

Visit Pic du Midi de Bigorreaccessible from the pass, is one of the region's major attractions. It houses an astronomical observatory and a museum dedicated to space science. At an altitude of 2,877 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the Pyrenees.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Col du Tourmalet famous?

Visit Tourmalet pass is world-renowned as one of the most climbed passes in the history of the Tour de France. Its difficulty and altitude make it a major challenge for cyclists.

When is the best time to visit the Col?

The best time to visit Tourmalet pass is from June to September, when the snow has melted and the road is open to vehicles.

Is it possible to cycle on the Col du Tourmalet?

Yes, the Tourmalet pass is a major challenge for cyclists. Numerous cycling enthusiasts flock here every summer to take on this legendary climb.

What walks can you do around Le Tourmalet?

There are several trails around the pass, including the ascent to the Pic du Midi de Bigorre and the Isaby lakes. Visit GR10 is also an option for experienced hikers.

Which towns to visit around Le Tourmalet?

The cities of Barèges, La Mongie and Campan are ideal starting points for exploring the Tourmalet pass.

Conclusion

Visit Tourmalet pass is much more than just a mountain pass. It's a symbol of challenge for cyclists, a place rich in history, and a gateway to the natural wonders of the Pyrenees. Whether you're a hiking or biking enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway in the heart of nature, the Tourmalet pass will seduce you.

To find out more about the history of the Pyrenees, visit this article.