Ariege

About the Route

For this week’s #switchbacksaturday, we return to the Pyrenees to explore a stunning switchback route in Ariege featuring Port de Pailhères

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Ariège is one of the least populated and most unspoiled regions of France. This route features a Tour de France hot spot.

Starting in the charming spa town of Ax-les-Thermes, known for its thermal baths, the route immediately presents a challenge as it ascends towards the Port de Pailhères. This climb, renowned for its serpentine switchbacks and breathtaking vistas, peaks at 2,001 meters, making it one of the highest passes in the region.
Descending from the Pailhères, the route loops around scenic landscapes, passing through quaint villages and verdant valleys, before approaching the climb up Col de Pradel. This ascent, though less famous than Pailhères, is equally demanding, with steep gradients and tight turns that test a cyclist’s endurance and skill. The views from the summit are a rewarding contrast of rugged peaks and pastoral tranquility.

As a final challenge, the route includes a bonus climb that pushes riders to their limits. This unexpected ascent, often shrouded in mist, offers a fitting conclusion to a journey marked by strenuous climbs and awe-inspiring scenery. Completing this route is a testament to a cyclist’s tenacity, providing a memorable experience in the heart of the Pyrenees.

Do you know the bonus climb?