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Col d'Aubisque: The Queen Stage of the Pyrenees

The Col d'Aubisque is one of the most dramatic climbs in cycling. Discover the legendary Aubisque-Soulor loop and why this Tour de France icon is a must-ride.

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Tourmalet.Bike Editorial Team
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Aug 28, 20261 min read1 views
Col d'Aubisque: The Queen Stage of the Pyrenees
#col-d-aubisque#tour-de-france#loop-route#pyrenees

The Col d'Aubisque is one of the most dramatic and feared climbs in the Pyrenees. Rising to 1,709 metres, it features towering limestone cliffs, tight switchbacks, and gradients that test even the strongest climbers.

The Classic Loop

The best way to experience the Aubisque is as part of the legendary Aubisque-Soulor loop. Start from Argelès-Gazost, climb the Col du Soulor, then continue through the spectacular Cirque du Litor — a narrow road carved into the cliffside — to reach the Aubisque summit. The full loop is approximately 70 km and includes 2,000 metres of climbing.

Why It's Special

The Aubisque has been a fixture of the Tour de France since 1910. The landscape is simply breathtaking — towering limestone cliffs, dramatic drops, and switchbacks that seem to hang from the mountain. It's not just a climb; it's a cycling pilgrimage.

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