Col d’Aspin from Arreau
Col d’Aspin from Arreau is a classic Pyrenean climb with a steady profile and enough history in the region to feel instantly familiar.
- Length
- 12.0 km
- Elevation Gain
- 780 m
- Average Gradient
- 6.5%
- Difficulty
- Very Challenging
Community recommendation
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From Arreau via Payolle, Col d’Aspin gives riders 12 kilometres of climbing at 6.5 percent average. That is a serious but rideable profile, ideal for a long mountain rhythm rather than a desperate fight from the bottom.
Aspin is often overshadowed by the Tourmalet, but that is slightly unfair. It is a beautiful and important Pyrenean road in its own right. In Stage 6, it works as part of a larger mountain chain, which is exactly how many riders should experience it.
How to Ride It
- Start steadily from Arreau.
- Keep your cadence smooth through the main body of the climb.
- Save energy if Tourmalet or Gavarnie follows later in the route.
Where to Stay
Bagnères de Bigorre, Arreau or Saint Lary Soulan can all work depending on the wider route. For a Stage 6 inspired trip, choose a base that makes Aspin and Tourmalet easy to combine.
Practical Tips
- Toulouse is the main airport reference for this part of the Pyrenees.
- Bring a layer for the descent.
- Do not treat Aspin as a warm up if it comes inside a big mountain day.
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