Col de la Pierre Saint-Martin, 1,760 m
Updated: Oct 8, 2025
Arette may be small, but it is a thriving community. I appreciate its bike shop, which is an essential resource in this relatively remote part of the Pyrenees. However, what I love most is the gallery of local cycling stars displayed on the side of the sports hall.
Among the notable individuals are renowned figures such as the 1920s climbing sensation Victor Fontan, sprinting expert André Darrigade, two-time Paris-Roubaix champion Gilbert Duclos-Lassalle, and loyal teammate of Thibaut Pinot, Mathieu Ladagnous.
Where else could be a better place to cycle?
One of the reasons I particularly enjoy this ascent is the minimal presence of traffic and people, and in comparison to French standards, the road is relatively wider.
CLIMB PROFILE: Starting from Arette: Distance 25.8 km, Altitude at the start: 300 m, Altitude at the summit: 1,760 m, Average gradient 5.68%, maximum 16%. Depending on your fitness and skill level, it can be completed in less than an hour.
A climb that could easily be part of the Tour de France due to its magnitude and accessibility, this hidden gem in the South Western Pyrenees is a monumental and stunning ascent that surprisingly remains off the radar for many. From Arette, it spans 25.8 km with an average incline of 5.7% to the peak, mostly uphill. You set your course towards the La Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort and forge ahead. The initial gradients of 1-2% hint at steeper sections ahead, with several stretches reaching 13-15%. The subsequent 5 km gradually ascend; it might even seem flat at times. Only the strain in your legs reveals the altitude gain.
At this stage, you come to realise that the 5.7% average gradient varies along the ascent. Emerging from the alpine forests, you reach a magnificent high mountain with more accessible sections. I found myself pausing at several spots to capture photos and rest my legs.
There are no refreshment stops along the climb, so ensure you have enough supplies to reach the summit comfortably. One of the main reasons I love this climb is the lack of traffic and other people. By French standards, the road is slightly wider as you approach the Col de Soudet (1,533 m). Continue towards the ski village, take the right-hand turn, and head for the summit. At this point, you’ll be surrounded by towering mountains that cast shadows over everything around you.
The Pierre Saint-Martin ski resort offers a serene landscape dominated by an expansive mountain backdrop filled with countless fir trees. The three surrounding peaks—Pic d'Arlas, Pic d'Anie, and Soum Couy—seem to watch over and protect the area. From this point, the rugged alpine trees and mountains give way to stunning views. There’s no fanfare at the summit, just panoramic vistas showcasing the natural beauty of both France and Spain. After taking in the sights, the only option is to return down the mountain, descending 1,466 meters to Arrette.
So all those mountains
None of these climbs are new or unknown; they have been sought after by cyclists from around the world for many decades. Living here year-round, we take pride in knowing this part of the Pyrenees inside and out. The moments I've experienced are my highest highs, accompanied by thousands of ordinary moments on less familiar roads with extraordinary people. This cycle repeats itself year after year, and I am always grateful for this sport and for living in such a beautiful part of the world. As the seasons change over time, I still feel as excited as a beginner. I continue to learn and find inspiration from the people we meet along the way. Some of them have been riding these mountains for most of their lives, and come from all age groups. I can only hope to be as strong as they are one day.
Where to next?
There are many attractions in the French Pyrenees, including several legendary Tour de France climbs that are on my ever-growing list. Additionally, there is a breathtaking gorge that offers a spectacular route into the heart of the Picos de Europa mountain range in northern Spain.
I was born in South Africa and am a proud mother of a beautiful daughter. In my early 20s, I moved to the United Kingdom. My partner, Tom, originally from New Zealand, grew tired of city life and craved something reminiscent of New Zealand. In 2015, we left city life behind for the mountains and rivers and have never looked back.
On numerous occasions, we have met both younger and older touring cyclists. When we ask them where they are heading, they always share an exhaustive list of countries and speak with great excitement about their journeys. We wish them a safe trip, hoping that one day we will have the opportunity to embark on a cycling tour ourselves.
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