Highlight • Mountain Pass
Menté Pass
Road cycling
4.9
(110)
Hiking
4.8
(44)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
The Col de Menté is a renowned mountain pass nestled in the heart of the central Pyrenees, within France's Haute-Garonne department. Standing at an elevation of 1,349 meters (4,426 ft), this pass is a vital link, connecting the Ger and Garonne valleys. It's particularly famous for its challenging D44 road, which winds between Saint-Béat and the D618, leading towards the base of the Col de Portet d'Aspet.
Visitors consistently praise the Col de Menté for its demanding yet rewarding cycling…
Tips
April 4, 2023
Road cycling
•March 10, 2016
Road cycling
•July 12, 2020
Road cycling
After a 7 km “false flat” and a few 12% ramps, the 7 km pass presents itself to us. Typical Pyrenean pass with ever steeper slopes as you approach the summit.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Menté Pass
4.6
(7)
548
riders
58.1km
03:22
1,400m
1,400m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(3)
547
riders
126km
07:29
3,240m
3,240m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(4)
429
riders
91.1km
05:05
1,830m
1,830m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,360 m
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main cycling routes and their difficulty levels for Col de Menté?
The Col de Menté offers two primary cycling ascents. From Pont de l'Oule (east), the climb is 10.9 km long with an average gradient of 6.57%, considered scenic with looping bends. The western approach from Saint-Béat is shorter but steeper, spanning 9.3 km with a challenging average gradient of 9.13%, featuring sections exceeding 11%. Both routes are fully paved but include narrow sections and numerous hairpin turns, making them a test for experienced riders.
Are there any hiking trails around Col de Menté, and what is their difficulty?
While the Col de Menté is primarily known for cycling, the surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking. Specific marked hiking trails directly from the pass are not extensively detailed, but the region's pastures, villages, and proximity to the Le Mourtis ski station suggest various paths. Difficulty can range from moderate walks through the pastoral landscapes to more challenging ascents depending on the chosen route and elevation gain. It's advisable to consult local maps or resources for detailed hiking trail information.
What notable landmarks or viewpoints can be found at or near Col de Menté?
At the summit of Col de Menté, you'll find a stele commemorating Serge Lapébie, a former professional cyclist. Additionally, a plaque on one of the hairpins on the Saint-Béat side marks the site of the dramatic 1971 Tour de France crash involving Luis Ocaña and Eddy Merckx. While the summit itself is surrounded by forest and may not offer expansive panoramic views, the climb from Pont de l'Oule is noted for its fantastic views from its looping bends. The nearby Le Mourtis ski station also provides a different perspective of the mountainous landscape.
What are the parking options at Col de Menté?
There is a large café at the top of the Col de Menté, which typically offers parking facilities for visitors. Given its popularity, especially during peak cycling seasons, it's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot. Parking is generally available directly at the pass summit.
Is Col de Menté suitable for winter activities, and how does weather affect access?
Yes, Col de Menté can be suitable for winter activities, primarily due to its proximity to the Le Mourtis ski station, located just 1 km south of the pass. The pass itself is generally open year-round, but weather conditions, especially heavy snow and ice, can significantly impact road access. The D44 road, while paved, can become bumpy due to winter frost cycles and occasional rockfall. Always check local weather and road conditions before planning a winter visit.
Are there any family-friendly options or activities near Col de Menté?
While the main draw of Col de Menté is challenging cycling, the surrounding area offers a more relaxed experience for families. The charm of nearby pastures and villages can be explored, and the Le Mourtis ski station provides winter sports opportunities. For less strenuous activities, families might enjoy short walks in the lower, less steep sections or visiting the café at the summit. Specific family-oriented trails are not highlighted, so planning activities based on the family's fitness level is recommended.
Are dogs allowed on trails or in the area around Col de Menté?
Generally, dogs are welcome on most outdoor trails in the Pyrenees, provided they are kept under control, ideally on a leash, and owners clean up after them. While there are no specific restrictions mentioned for Col de Menté, it's always good practice to respect local regulations and other visitors. If planning to visit the café or other establishments, it's best to check their individual pet policies beforehand.
Are there cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Col de Menté?
Yes, there is a large café located directly at the summit of Col de Menté, offering a convenient stop for refreshments. For more extensive dining, pub options, or accommodation, you would need to descend into the nearby villages in the Ger or Garonne valleys, such as Saint-Béat or those closer to the Col de Portet d'Aspet. The Le Mourtis ski station, just 1 km away, also likely offers facilities during its operating season.
How does the difficulty of Col de Menté compare to other Pyrenean passes like Port de Balès?
The Col de Menté is known for its consistently steep gradients and numerous tight hairpin turns, particularly on the Saint-Béat side, with sections exceeding 11%. It's considered a challenging climb for cyclists. While the intro doesn't directly compare it to Port de Balès, Pyrenean passes generally offer varying degrees of difficulty. Col de Menté's reputation for steepness and its historical significance in the Tour de France place it among the more demanding climbs in the region, often serving as a gateway to other significant cols like Portet d'Aspet, allowing for longer, multi-col routes.
What is the typical duration required to cycle or drive over Col de Menté?
The duration to cycle or drive over Col de Menté depends on the starting point and individual pace. For cyclists, the ascent from Pont de l'Oule is 10.9 km, and from Saint-Béat, it's 9.3 km. An experienced cyclist might take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for the ascent, depending on fitness and the chosen side. Driving over the pass is much quicker, likely taking 15-30 minutes for the full traverse, depending on traffic and road conditions, given the narrow sections and hairpin bends.