Sure, you’ve heard of Alpe d’Huez and Mont Ventoux, but what about these lesser known climbs listed below? All of them have been included in the Tour de France, so take a look at them and their stats.
Here are 5 fantastic climbs that you may never have heard of:
1. La Hourquette d’Ancizan: In the lead up to two legendary climbs (Tourmalet & Luz Ardiden), Stage 12 of the 2011 Tour de France also featured the Hourquette d’Ancizan for the first time in Tour history. While not quite as grueling as the following two climbs, it still should not be underestimated at 10.3 km long with an average gradient of 7.8%.
2. Col de la Core: This Pyrenean climb has been used frequently in past Tours but is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. Nevertheless, it’s a fantastic ascent.
3. Col d’Agnes: Another Pyrenean climb. Sandwiched between two famous climbs (Portet d’Aspet & Plateau du Beille), this more minor col might frequently get overlooked. However, this is a beautiful little climb, starting out in a small river valley and ascending to a few small lakes.
4. Col de Montgenèvre: Connecting the Alpine border of France and Italy, this road has been used numerous times for both the Tour and the Giro d’Italia.
5. Col Agnel: In Situ’s preferred choice to cross the Franco-Italian border, this small mountain road typically sees little vehicular traffic and is one of the highest passes in the French Alps at 2744 meters (9000 feet). From the eastern slope, this climb is a real beast at 22km with extended sections at 12%.
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