Conquering the wild road to Collade des Roques Blanches

# Collade des Roques Blanches: A Pyrénées Adventure

Tucked away in the Pyrénées-Orientales, near the Spanish border in Occitania, sits Collade des Roques Blanches—a mountain pass perched at 2,260 meters (7,414 feet). The name's a nod to its Catalan origins, "Collada del Rocas Blancas," which literally means "Pass of the White Rocks." It's nestled within the Réserve Naturelle de Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste, and honestly, it's a spectacular spot.

The climb starts in the charming town of Prats-de-Mollo-la-Preste and stretches 24.3 kilometers with a total elevation gain of 1,517 meters—that's an average gradient of 6.2%. Not for the faint of heart, but doable if you come prepared.

The first quarter is pretty forgiving, with grades staying below 7% as you ease into the ascent. You'll roll through the thermal spa town of La Preste-les-Bains, which marks the last outpost of comfort before things get seriously gnarly. After this, expect the road to tighten and deteriorate as you face a brutal 4-kilometer section averaging over 8.5%. It's the kind of stretch that'll test your legs.

Next comes a slightly more merciful 6 kilometers around Col des Besses at a more manageable 5.5%—though you might want to consider switching to a gravel bike here.

The final 6 kilometers? Yeah, that's unpaved. Rough dirt, loose rocks, and sections that'll make road cyclists wince. You'll also tackle Coll des Molles along the way. Expect grades around 7.5% with nasty little pitches hitting 11–12%. Add the altitude into the mix—you're breathing thin air above 2,000 meters—and your lungs will definitely remind you of the effort. But here's the thing: the scenery is absolutely worth it. Just you, stunning landscapes, and the quiet of nature. That's the real reward.