Tourmalet

Tourmalet refers to a prominent mountain in the French Pyrenees, best known for the Col du Tourmalet, a high-altitude pass whose summit reaches 2,115 meters (6,945 feet) above sea level. The pass lies in the western Pyrenees, near the towns of Luz-Saint-Sauveur and Barèges, and is a major feature of the Hautes-Pyrénées region. The surrounding area includes the linked ski resorts of La Mongie and Barèges, forming one of the larger ski domains in the Pyrenees. The terrain is alpine, with rugged peaks, scree slopes, and glacial features.

Col du Tourmalet has long been a staple of cycling. It has been regularly included in the Tour de France since 1910 and is regarded as one of the most iconic climbs in professional cycling. The northern ascent from Luz-Saint-Sauveur is the most commonly used route in the race, though there are other approaches. The climb is lengthy and gains significant elevation, with gradients that range from gentle to steep over several kilometers, presenting a persistent test of endurance.

Outside cycling, the Tourmalet is a destination for hikers in summer and for skiers in winter, when the Barèges-La Mongie area operates as a major ski resort. The summit and surrounding slopes attract visitors with panoramic views of the Pyrenees. The pass is typically closed to motor traffic during winter snow periods, resuming in late spring when conditions allow safe passage.