Spain · Iberian Peninsula
Coll d'Ares
A historic border pass between Catalunya and France with long gradients, cool forest sections, and an open final kilometer to the frontier.
- Length
- 22.4 km
- Avg gradient
- 5.1%
- Max gradient
- 11%
- Elevation gain
- 990 m
- Summit
- 1,513 m
- Hairpins
- 13
Versants
- From Camprodon — 12.5 km at 4.5% (max 9%)
- From Prats-de-Mollo — 22.4 km at 5.1% (max 11%)
History
Coll d'Ares is a historic border pass between Catalunya and France with long gradients, cool forest sections, and an open final kilometer to the frontier. The 22.4 km climb from Prats-de-Mollo at 5.1% average features consistent, manageable gradients.
The road winds through beech forest on the lower sections before opening to alpine terrain near the summit. The combination of forest scenery and frontier views make it a complete climbing experience.
The pass is frequently used in regional cycling routes and offers a peaceful approach to the high Pyrenees. The combination of moderate difficulty, scenic value, and border-crossing significance make it a valued climb.