Col d'Azet (Azet)
Start Town | Altitude | Elevation Gain | Length | Gradient | Difficulty | Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bourisp | 1,580m | 780m | 10.7 km | 7.3% | 827 | ***** |
Climb Description
Col d'Azet is not one of the most cycling famous climbs in the Pyrenees, even though it has appeared numerous times in the Tour de France in recent years. Its lack of fame is probably because it usually occurs early in the route and is overshadowed by a big finish on Pla d'Adet. However, the list of riders who have led the race over the pass including Joaquim Rodríguez, Marco Pantani and Laurent Jalabert - suggests that this is proper climb for proper climbers.The climb from Bourisp is the more scenic side and also the slightly less challenging of the two ascents. The scenery is spectacular throughout with great views into two valleys. One of the highlights of climbing the Col d'Azet is the unique perspective it gives you of other climbs - notably Pla d'Adet and the Col de Peyresourde, both of which can be clearly made out.
The Col d'Azet is slightly off the beaten track, but there are lots of other great climbs in the area, and it is well worth a diversion to include as part of a longer route.
The Col d'Azet is usually open from April to November but can be open longer, particularly if the road is cleared in winter to allow access to the nearby Val Louron ski station.
Roads & Traffic
The road surface is in very good condition throughout.
There is little traffic on the climb.
Col de Portet
Col d'Aspin
Hourquette d'Ancizan
Pla d'Adet
Route des Lacs
Col de Peyresourde
Col du Tourmalet
Route des Lacs
Piau Engaly
Check out the information below for details of this and some of the other tours that we run in high mountains.
There is little traffic on the climb.
Alternative Routes
Col d'Azet can also be climbed from the east, beginning in Genos.Nearby Climbs
Col de Portet
Col d'Aspin
Hourquette d'Ancizan
Pla d'Adet
Route des Lacs
Col de Peyresourde
Col du Tourmalet
Route des Lacs
Piau Engaly
Cycling Holidays
Col d'Azet can be climbed as a route option on our Best of the Pyrenees cycling holiday.Check out the information below for details of this and some of the other tours that we run in high mountains.