
The Pyrenees' most storied Tour de France climb.
The D918 over the Col du Tourmalet at 2,115 m is the most-climbed summit in Tour de France history, a long, exposed ascent through the high Pyrenees between Luz-Saint-Sauveur and the Col. Steady and spectacular; expect cyclists in numbers, livestock on the open upper slopes, and winter closure.
The most-climbed col in Tour de France history. Long, exposed, and utterly iconic.
Why we picked it
Scenery
Mountain
Best seasons
SummerAutumn
In these collections
Where it runs11.8 mi · point to point
Luz-Saint-SauveurStart · Occitania
BarègesEnd · Occitania
Navigate to the start: Apple Maps · Google Maps
Character
Corners42bends
Tightness6of 10
Max gradient10%≈ 1-in-10
Hairpins12tight bends
Climb1,381 mtotal ascent
Summit2,110.4 mhighest point of the line · 6,924 ft
Corners
busiest around mile 4Elevation
under 4%4–8%over 8%729.8 – 2,110.4 mPoints of interest1 stop
- Le GéantLandmark12 mi in
Hazards
- Cyclists in large numbers
- Livestock on the open slopes
- Closed in winter
Is Col du Tourmalet open? Typical season and live summit weather ›
Sources
“The legendary Col du Tourmalet is one of the world's top roads.”
Verified route: mapped from real road geometry and fact-checked by a human editor. How roads get checked
Driving the Col du Tourmalet: quick answers
How long does it take to drive the Col du Tourmalet?
Col du Tourmalet runs 11.8 miles (19 km) and takes about 25 min to drive without stops.
How difficult is the Col du Tourmalet to drive?
We rate it demanding: 42 corners including 12 hairpins, a maximum gradient of 10%, and a tightness of 6 out of 10.
When is the best time to drive the Col du Tourmalet?
Summer and Autumn are best. The road closes seasonally over winter; check it has reopened before setting out.
Nearby roads
The closest great drives to Col du Tourmalet.
Col du Tourmalet
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