Port d'Envalira (2,408 m) is the highest paved pass in the Pyrenees. 16 km from Encamp at 6.5% average with 1,040 m vertical gain.
At 2,408 m partial oxygen pressure drops 18% vs sea level. Non-acclimatised riders will notice a significant hit to sustained power. The climb is a serious altitude test used by World Tour teams in pre-season camps.
The climb starts in Encamp on the CG-2, the main artery that crosses the whole principality to Pas de la Casa. The first 6 km ramp up through Canillo at 7-8%. After Soldeu (1,820 m) the gradient stabilises at 6-7% for 10 km to the top. The last steep kick sits just before the summit, with the Pic Blanc lookout visible to the right.
Port d'Envalira was pivotal in the 1964 Tour de France, where Jacques Anquetil attacked on the descent to claw back time on Raymond Poulidor. It returned to the Tour in 2021 as a transit col towards Andorra la Vella.
We recommend a road bike with 11-32 or 11-34 cassette. See "Bike recommendations" above.
Between 1h15-2h00 depending on level and pace. E-bike shaves 30-45 min vs regular times.
No, this route needs prior experience (hard difficulty). Consider softer routes like La Rabassa.
Viladomat Rental pickup points in La Massana, Grandvalira and Ordino Arcalís. Book online for Fast-Lane at the counter.
Good coverage on 80% of the route. High-altitude sections may have gaps. Carry an offline map (Komoot, Strava).
