The Col d’Aubisque, a must-see in the Pyrenees

On foot or by bike, the Col d'Aubisque is worth the detour. Passionate about nature and adventure, you will be delighted to enjoy this space which dominates the resort of La Gourette , 1 hour from Oloron-Sainte-Marie. Whatever the season, the landscapes are breathtaking with green mountains or covered with a white carpet which offer you a unique panorama. Prepare your excursion with complete peace of mind, we tell you everything there is to know about the Col d'Aubisque, a must-see in the Pyrenees.

Photo report: Canva

The Col d'Aubisque, a legendary stopover on the mountain pass route

The Col d'Aubisque is known to be an essential passage of the Tour de France, in a setting of impressive beauty. The Tour of Spain (the Vuelta) also passes through this pass of the Pyrenees, which explains the attraction of tourists, cyclists and hikers for this legendary pass. Dominating the Gourette station, it rises to a height of 1,709 m, enough to admire a breathtaking 360° panorama of the mountains. The view is breathtaking, particularly over the Gourette cirque, with its hilly landscapes and multi-colored trees. The route of the passes dates from 1859 under Napoleon 3 who sought to develop thermal tourism with a circuit leading to associated towns. Originally called the thermal route of the Pyrenees, the mountain pass route is today linked to sports tourism for nature lovers looking to escape and challenge themselves.

A steep cycle path at the Col d’Aubisque

Tour de France riders are not the only ones who enjoy climbing the passes of the Pyrenees. Two-wheel enthusiasts and experienced cyclists are also motivated by this ascent into the heart of nature, on steep and winding roads that are difficult to climb. Two roads can lead to the Col d'Aubisque depending on your energy , your experience and above all your desire.

• Departing from Argelès-Gazost via the Col du Soulor, the climb is slightly easier with an average slope of 4.7% over around thirty kilometers.
• From Laruns, the circuit is shorter, but more complicated since the roads are inclined by 7.1% on average over a course of 16.8 km.

Whatever route you take, your calves will heat up. Remember to take a breath once you arrive and above all to admire the magnificent landscapes that stretch out before your eyes.

The Col d'Aubisque on foot, a unique experience in the Pyrenees

Put on your feet properly, let's go for an incredible ride to the Col d'Aubisque at any time of the year. In summer, the trails allow you to travel between the mountains and access this essential pass. The routes are varied with medium to moderate difficulties. Everyone can therefore take the routes that suit them according to their physical condition, to appreciate all the beauty of green vegetation in a hilly natural area. In winter, the landscapes are covered in purity with an immaculate white carpet and this time, snowshoes are recommended. Dip your feet in the powder to progress at your own pace on snowy trails, another way to discover the Col d'Aubisque. Hike, stroll or trail, there is something for all tastes, all desires and all energies.

What you need to know about the Col d’Aubisque

Pay attention to the season if you want to climb the Col d'Aubisque since it is generally closed from mid-November to the end of May for safety reasons. In the same way, the circulation of large vehicles is regulated, as is that of motorhomes which must comply with passage times to access Aubisque or Soulor. Once at the Col d'Aubisque, push to the Soum Grum summit where the view is breathtaking, before going back down or continuing your escapade in the mountain. In winter as in summer, remember to hydrate yourself and above all to equip yourself well. Shoes should support your ankles with soles that don't slip, while racing bikes should be light with a good power-to-weight ratio so you don't get tired. To vary the hikes, consider consulting visiorando where a dozen itineraries are offered. It's up to you, all you have to do is climb.

This time you are ready to discover the Col d'Aubisque in the way you want. Remember to take a few souvenir photos to remember this magnificent excursion in the Pyrenees.

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