Iconic Climbs in the Eastern Pyrenees

Untamed roads between vineyards, sea and Catalan ridgelines

Far from the crowded Alpine giants or the Mont Ventoux myth, the Eastern Pyrenees offer a raw and wild cycling experience. These climbs may be short in distance, but they punch above their weight with steep gradients, unpredictable winds, and dramatic Mediterranean views. This is a land of contrasts — perfect for climbers, gravel lovers, and road cyclists looking for lesser-known but challenging terrain.

Below, we break down four key climbs of the Pyrénées-Orientales, all easily accessible from Perpignan or Banyuls-sur-Mer. Routes, profiles, gradients and difficulty — all the essentials to plan your next Baroudeur Cycling trip.

Col de Banyuls

Altitude: 355 m – Starting point: Banyuls-sur-Mer
Difficulty: 4/10
Distance: 10.2 km – Elevation gain: 352 m – Avg. gradient: 3.5%
Distance from Perpignan: 40 km / 50 minutes drive

The climb starts right from the heart of Banyuls. After a gentle start through vineyards and dry stone walls, the final 3 km are brutally steep, often accompanied by strong headwinds. Expect a remote and rugged feel, with views stretching to the Spanish border. The tarmac is decent, but the road is narrow and exposed.

A short but punchy climb — ideal for gravel or road bikes. Option to loop via Espolla in Spain.

Col de la Serra

Altitude: 340 m – Starting point: Paulilles or Port-Vendres
Difficulty: 3/10
Distance: 6.2 km – Elevation gain: 310 m – Avg. gradient: 5%
Distance from Perpignan: 38 km / 45 minutes drive

A local favourite with stunning sea views over the Côte Vermeille. Climbable from Port-Vendres or Paulilles, this quiet road winds above the coastline, providing a beautiful backdrop for a quick ascent or a warm-up ride. Combine it with nearby passes (Mollo, Las Portas, Perdiguer) for a punchy half-day loop.

Great for beginners or midweek training rides. Low traffic and Mediterranean charm guaranteed.

Col de Jau

Altitude: 1506 m – Starting point: Mosset
Difficulty: 7/10
Distance: 18 km – Elevation gain: 1100 m – Avg. gradient: 6%
Distance from Perpignan: 60 km / 1h10 drive

This is the big climb of the Canigó massif. It’s long, consistent and shaded for most of the ride. The road is well surfaced and traffic is scarce. From Mosset, you enter a deep, green forest before gradually emerging above the treeline. From the summit, views of the Capcir and Conflent regions are stunning.

Ideal for endurance rides or altitude training. A must for road cyclists visiting the region.

Col de Mantet

Altitude: 1760 m – Starting point: Sahorre
Difficulty: 9/10
Distance: 18 km – Elevation gain: 1200 m – Avg. gradient: 6.7%
Distance from Perpignan: 90 km / 1h30 drive

For experienced riders only. The climb to Mantet is remote, relentless, and wild. You’ll find no water points, no services, and barely any traffic. The road is often rough, winding through untouched forest and exposed ridgelines. Wind can be a major factor, and the gradient rarely lets up.

One of the toughest climbs in the region. Come prepared — mentally and physically.

‍

‍