올레트‬에서 가장 멋진 ‪11‬개의 산길

The Col de Jou from Villefranche de Conflent is a climb in the French Pyrenees. This climb is 11.4 kilometers long and has a positive elevation gain of 687 meters. The Col de Jou from Villefranche de Conflent has an average gradient of 6%.

It is a simply spectacular port that unites the regions of Conflent and Capcir. It is one of the most beautiful ports in the easternmost Pyrenees. It is very close to the Col de la Llosa, and you can take a circular route that is known as the "Route des Cols". It is also indicated on nearby road signs. The hardest slope is the one that begins in Olette (Conflent) and goes up through Aiguatèbia. There are almost 22 km of ascent and 1,089 meters of elevation gain. It has 3 very different zones: (1) the first is a constant 5 km at 7%; (2) the second is 10 km at 4% and with some very pleasant rest areas, with beautiful views; (3) The final part is 6 km on average at 7%, since it passes the town of Railleu, although the hard part is the last 3 km, with several ramps that exceed 10%. The road is narrow and has uneven asphalt, with hardly any cars and motorcycles. For me, the final part of this port is truly spectacular and should not be missed. The west slope begins in the town of Matamala (Capcir) and is 3 km with an average of close to 8%. It is a long irregular stretch along a narrow and very quiet road, with panoramic views of the valley when the thick black pine forest gives some opportunity.

A little disappointing: the pass is in the middle of the forest and offers no view. The climb from (and to!) Railleu is nevertheless superb. A nice picnic area to have a bite to eat.

I attach the link to consult the profile produced by @cyclingcols --> https://www.cyclingcols.com/col/Llose

It is the final stretch of the climb on its western slope. Previously, until you reach Llagone, you can get there via the Col de Quillane or the Col de la Perche. It is 3 km with a road in perfect condition, very wide and with rough asphalt. At the detour, right at the beginning, there is a small section of descent to then face 2.5km at 7% and some hard ramps. At the top of Col de la Llose there is a bar where you can have a drink.

The Col de Jou peaks at an altitude of 1,125 meters. It is a well-known rallying point for local hikers. Indeed, the GR 10 passes through there, and it is the starting point for many hikes including the one that connects Canigou peak.

It is a mandatory port for anyone who wants to visit Upper Cerdanya by bicycle. On the southern slope it is very affordable; However, the charm of this port is on the northern slope, the one that goes up from Olette. It has all the incentives for good cycle tourism.

Good mood and good food: the ideal place to regain your strength!