Departure: Les Cabannes
Length: 15.9km
Altitude: 1,785m
Height Gain: 1,265m
Average Gradient: 7.9%
Maximum gradient: 10.8%
Category: Hors Category
Regarded by some as every bit as tough as Mont Ventoux, the climb
up to the 1,780 metre summit of the Plateau de Beille is a formidable
challenge. While 6 kilometres shorter in length from the Mont's most
difficult side, Bedoin, it is marginally steeper at a touch under 8%.
A hallmark of the climb are the views along the way, should you
have the energy and inclination to bother. Four kilometres into the ride the
mountain landscape dominates the skyline. Then another, and you're gazing over
the Ariege valley below.
Averaging around 9%, the steady gradient and sweeping hairpins are
now the norm. Relentless, it's not until you're out of the trees that you
finally begin to feel that you're edging closer to the summit. Fuelled by the
barren landscape, the Tour graffiti and the flat section of road, you're
almost tricked into thinking you're just about there. While your aching limbs
hope you are, your head tells you that like just about all the 'tough' climbs,
you don't get off that easy.
One last kilometre, at no less than 11%, and you've finally arrived at the Plateau de Beille's vast tarmac that spends its winter
accommodating downhill skiers rather than cycling masochists.
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