In short

The Col du Tourmalet, at 2,115 m the most famous pass in the Pyrenees, is the second of four big climbs on the queen stage, Stage 18 on Thursday 22 July 2027. The race climbs it from Luz-Saint-Sauveur: 19 km at about 7.4%. Luz-Saint-Sauveur, at the foot, has the closest beds.

Key facts
StageTour de France, Stage 18: Pau → Col du Portet
DateThu 22 July 2027
Length19 km
Average gradient7.4%
Summit2,115 m
On the stageClimbed during the stage

Where to stay

Stay in Luz-Saint-Sauveur, where the climb begins, or in Barèges, higher up the same road. Argelès-Gazost, further down the valley, has more rooms. You cannot see both the Tourmalet and the finish on race day: the Col du Portet finish is on the other side of the mountains.

Watching on race day

The last few kilometres to the summit have the widest views. Many fans camp on the mountain the night before. Roads close to cars early, so walk or ride up from Luz-Saint-Sauveur or Barèges, and bring a warm layer: it is cold at 2,000 m, even in July.

Ride it yourself

The Tourmalet is the climb most cycling fans want on their list. From Luz-Saint-Sauveur it is long and steady rather than brutal. Start early, carry a jacket for the descent, and check the road is open before you set off.

Plan more of your trip

Col du Tourmalet questions

When does the 2027 Tour de France climb the Tourmalet?

On Thursday 22 July 2027, during Stage 18 from Pau to the Col du Portet. The Tourmalet is the second of four big climbs.

Which side of the Tourmalet does the 2027 Tour climb?

The west side, from Luz-Saint-Sauveur: 19 km at about 7.4%. The race then descends towards Sainte-Marie-de-Campan.

Can I see the Tourmalet and the finish on the same day?

Not really. Roads close for the race, and the Col du Portet finish is on the other side of the mountains. Pick one, and watch the rest on a screen.

· Sources: letour.fr, Cyclingnews, 2027 Tour route, Domestique, 2027 Tour route