The Col Collective - Col d’Aspin
This week we are featuring the Col d’Aspin. Not the hardest, highest or toughest… it’s the perfect place to start to find your mountain legs while experiencing fantastic views and ticking off an iconic name.
The Col Collective's Mike Cotty brings you the inside information to help get you to the top.
Images and video by The Col Collective
It may not be the highest, hardest or longest climb in the Pyrenees but that’s not to say the Col d’Aspin should be totally overshadowed by the more prestigious peaks in the area.
Starting from Sainte Marie de Campan you face a 12.8km climb at a moderate 5% average gradient. Unlike the steep pitches of Hautacam or the Col de Portet d’Aspet, the Aspin is gentle in comparison, initially meandering alongside the Adour de Payolle river before the road starts to rise with 5km to go.
It’s for this reason that the Col d’Aspin is the perfect medicine if you’re new to the mountains and want to tackle something a little less daunting but equally as iconic…
Smell the rich pine aroma, fill your lungs with mountain air. The Aspin is like a good friend, there to encourage you to enjoy the day at your own pace and without the nervous prospect of a hammer to the head!
Key Statistics
- Length of climb - 12.8km
- Start elevation - 840m
- Summit elevation - 1,489m
- Elevation gain- 649m
- Gradient (avg)- 5.0%
- Gradient (max)- 9.0% at 8.0km
- Gearing Suggestion 34x25 (minimum)
For the full story, detailed maps or to ask a question about this epic climb visit The Col Collective
We've teamed up with awesome team at 'The Col Collective' to bring you insights into the best riding in the world.
Run by Mike Cotty, The Col Collective are all about providing cyclists with the inspiration, education and support needed to reach the summit of the greatest mountain passes in the world. With amazing video overviews, maps, hints and a Q&A forum, The Col Collective should be your first stop when preparing for your European cycling trip!
